Booking fees
£1.50 booking fee per online/phone transaction.
No fee when tickets are booked in person.
Booking fees are per transaction and not per ticket. If your booking contains several events the highest booking fee will apply. The booking fee may be reduced on certain events. Members do not pay booking fees.
Frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit
What age child is the show suitable for?
The show is specifically designed for babies from 0-18 months. The slots will incorporate very gentle light and soundscapes that are suitable for babies only and their development during that phase of life.
We want families to feel included, so if you’re wanting to bring your baby and their older sibling then this is absolutely fine.
Do I need to buy a ticket for my baby?
There are two types of ticket. A single ticket (£8) covers entry into the
performance pod for up to 4 people (including one baby). A group ticket
(£12) covers entry into the performance pod for up to 6 people (including
two babies).
Please contact our box office team on 020 7870 2500 if you have any
queries.
How long is the show and what will happen?
The performance lasts approximately 15 minutes.
First Light is inspired by baby lab research into the expanding vision of
children from birth until 18 months. This 15-minute installation distils the
world of awakening perception into a unique show. Real-life soundscapes
harmonise and echo a newborn’s hearing, this is designed to be enjoyed by both baby and their grown up.
The show was created especially for audiences at the Barbican and is
returning for a second time to the Pit theatre.
Where does the show take place?
The performance takes place in The Pit theatre. The Pit is located on Level
-2 within the main Barbican building and can be accessed via the stairs or
lifts on Level G, next to the doors to the Lakeside Terrace.
What facilities are there for audiences?
The Barbican Kitchen will be open throughout, serving a range of teas, coffees and snacks to enjoy. The Barbican Kitchen is running an offer for families during the Christmas period. Children under 10 can enjoy a free kid’s meal when you purchase an adult meal for £10 or more. Please ask a Member of our Barbican Kitchen staff for more details.
The Chill-out Space includes a small play space available to parents and their babies. This will be open from 10am – 6pm.
Is there somewhere to feed or change my baby?
There will be a changing table in the Chill-out Space nearby, as well as bottle-warming facilities. Breastfeeding is always welcome across the Barbican Centre.
Can I take coats and bags into the performance?
Due to the immersive, participatory nature of the show, we ask that all bags and coats are left in our free cloakroom in the Level -2 foyer.
Where will I park my pram/buggy?
There will be a designated buggy park in the Level -2 Pit Foyer. There will also be staff on hand throughout the performance to help.
Can I take photos during the performance?
Please ensure your mobile phone is switched to silent before you enter the auditorium, but feel free to take photographs of your own child during the performance.
If you are unsure of how to find the Barbican, please see our website
http://www.barbican.org.uk/visitor-information/getting-here
If you have any other queries or concerns, please call our box office team on 020 7870 2500
Accessibility
All performances of First Light are relaxed, which means you are welcome
to move around and make noise during the show.
There is a Chill-out Space available should you need to leave the
performance, and you are welcome to come back in at any point.
Relaxed performances are suitable for anyone who would benefit from a
more relaxed environment and is particularly suitable for those with
learning disabilities, sensory or communication needs.
If you would like to discuss the show further to see whether it is suited to
your needs or if there is a specific requirement we can address to make your visit more enjoyable then please contact Mali Siloko on
[email protected].
Reviews
Discover
The Guardian: The science behind how babies see
Read about the inspiration for the interactive Pit installation First Light. This article touches on the emerging research into infant sensory development, tackling how babies experience colours, shapes and light.
