Guest Blog by Kelly Bond
Anyone who knows me knows how passionate I am about children’s theatre. It’s so important.
For so many reasons. The confidence it builds, the safe space it creates.
That’s why a supporting youth theatre is just as important as supporting adult productions, if not more so.
For these reasons and more will always be my pleasure to support SONG. And I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to sneak a peak at their production of Whistle Down The Wind ahead of its official opening on Thursday (9th April 2026).
SONG was a central part of my life in my teens and it’s so heartwarming to see my friends’ children who have become “Songies”.
Each of them shines up on Rhe Atkinson stage, but there was something particularly special in seeing Fleur Grace in a leading role…Having followed her performances over the years this role is perhaps my favourite to date. The most sincere and effortless of vocals, it was a delight to see and hear.
I didn’t intend to get deep and meaningful, but having not seen the show for so many years I couldn’t help but feel taken aback by how important its message is, now probably more so than ever. Belief (or perhaps a lack of it in some), fear, judgement …and how quickly people can jump to conclusions (instead of leading with kindness).
I won’t spoil the narrative for those yet to see it but essentially it reminds us to have a little more compassion for one another… something the world could really do with digesting right now.
I’m never one to shy away from the fact I can often feel uncomfortable with children performing shows with big ole juicy adult themes… but this production handled them so beautifully and completely appropriately, which is a real testament to the production team.
Every child on stage was giving it their absolute all, I’d love to list and tag them all and praise them for their efforts, (and I’m sure that just that will happen when reviews come out from those far more qualified than I!)
But who I absolutely must rave about is the small ensemble of “children”… who made me smile as quickly as they filled my eyes up with tears in “no matter what”. If you are a parent of any of these kids…you’re going to be overcome with emotion they are simply a joy to watch.
If you’ve got tickets, enjoy it. Children performing their socks off and clearly loving every moment of it (and some performances that make you forget they are children all together they are that polished).
If you’re thinking about it, please go.
Support youth theatre, support these incredible young people and TAKE TISSUES!!!
About The Show
Whistle Down The Wind is at The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport, on:
Thursday 9th April 2026 (7.30pm)
Friday 10th April 2026 (7.30pm)
Saturday 11th April 2026 (2.30pm and 7.30pm)
For tickets visit: Whistle Down the Wind – The Atkinson
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown or email: [email protected]
