Based on John Burningham’s much-loved book Cloudland, this Musical Curiosities production is a joyful celebration of music and theatre for children aged 3-7 and their grown-ups.
in 2026 Music in the Clouds was performed at the Big Malarkey Festival, Barkham Exmoor, Ryedale Festival and Lake District Summer Music
in 2026 Music in the Clouds was performed at the Big Malarkey Festival, Barkham Exmoor, Ryedale Festival and Lake District Summer Music
Musical Curiosities was founded in January 2026 by flautist Meera Maharaj and harpist Lucy Nolan. Presenting musical storytelling productions across the UK, these enchanting shows manifest as staged performances, interweaving music, narration, physical theatre and interactive elements.
Cloudland integrates classical, folk and contemporary chamber music with children’s literature, creating a magical world for little ones and their adults alike! Between June-August, the show toured to prestigious festivals including Lake District Music, Ryedale and Big Malarkey festivals, as well as schools across North Yorkshire and Devon, engaging with hundreds of children and families.
Flautist and founder Meera Maharaj has delighted in delving into the story of Cloudland and wanted to share the following insight around the development process:
John Burningham’s books were a much-loved staple in our house as children. When considering which story to pick for our inaugural Musical Curiosities production, Cloudland was just the perfect choice! Lending itself to a beautiful combination of fantasy, fun and imagination, whilst also allowing young children an opportunity for reflection, Cloudland has a depth to it that speaks to children and adults alike.
The adventures and games in the midst of which Albert finds himself pair beautifully with an array of musical styles. We chose a range of music, spanning from classical works to contemporary music and from folk tunes to a specially commissioned song by John Webb based upon the magic words Albert (almost!) learns.
We were lucky to work with the incredible director Sophie Rivlin and designer Ivy Richards. The show Sophie devised really celebrates her use of humour, exploring a wide emotional range tailored to 3-7 year olds and inviting the audience into the fantastical world of Cloudland.’
Take a look inside the book and read more about Cloudland
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