Half Moon and Z-arts present Grandad Anansi by Elayne Ogbeta
For ages 4–9
An uplifting tale of love, courage, and letting go
Grandad Anansi, the award-winning family theatre production by Elayne Ogbeta, returns to Manchester this autumn due to popular demand. Presented by Half Moon and Z-arts, performances take place at Z-arts, Hulme (M15 5ZA) from Thursday 2 October – Saturday 4 October 2025.
Starring local Hulme legend Marcus Hercules, the show celebrates community, culture, and intergenerational storytelling. Marcus – an established reggae artist – brings warmth, charisma and musical energy to the role of Grandad, delighting families of all ages.
A story rooted in Manchester’s community.
Developed with the African Caribbean Care Group and local schools in Hulme, the show follows Abi and her Grandad as they share games, secrets, and Anansi folktales in the garden. With joyful songs, vibrant dancing, and plenty of humour, the production shines a light on Jamaican culture and the Windrush generation.
The play is written by Greater Manchester author Elayne Ogbeta, inspired by her father’s journey as part of the Windrush generation. Her writing celebrates storytelling and community, making this a truly Manchester-rooted production.
Award-winning theatre for families
First touring in autumn 2022 to over 30 venues and libraries nationwide, Grandad Anansi went on to win Best Performance at the Manchester Culture Awards 2023.
★★★★ “Elayne Ogbeta’s warm, pleasing and thoughtful show… manages to pack in more layers than a good strudel. Storytelling, and its extraordinary power, is at the centre of the piece.” – Sardines Magazine
“A colourful, amazing production” – The Guardian
Audience feedback: “We laughed, we danced, we even shed a tear!”
Ticket information
- £5 tickets (20% off for M15 & Bright Sparks Members)
- Grandparents go free!
- Performances last 50 minutes (no interval)
- BSL-interpreted performance: Saturday 4 October, 2pm (interpreter: Thomas Simper)
- School performances: Friday 3 October, 10:30am & 1:30pm (booking: helena@z-arts.org)
🎟️ Book your tickets now for this joyful family show that will have you laughing, dancing, and maybe even shedding a tear.