Psssst parents – are you looking for an affordable day out for the whole family? Join our dog and cat friends, Stan and Mabel, on a musical adventure as they discover the orchestra!

Music-loving dog and cat Stan and Mabel are back. This time, they’re joined by a whole carnival of animals as they escape from the School for Wild and Dangerous Animals in search of a safe place to call home.

This fun-packed interactive concert for children aged 3+, features highly engaging music by composer Paul Rissmann, storytelling by Polly Ives and projected illustrations from Jason Chapman’s original book. This is a perfect introduction to the orchestra with music also by Mozart, Elgar and Tomlinson.

EPSG:4326

Stan and Mabel: The Race for Space

St John the Evangelist, Upper Norwood

When she disappears to judge a competition to find the Greatest Orchestra in the World, there’s only one thing for it – they’re going to have to audition! But who will join their orchestra? Find out as the London Philharmonic Orchestra and presenter Polly Ives tell the lively story of Stan and Mabel, based on the book by Jason Chapman with music by Paul Rissmann. With plenty of audience interaction throughout, as well as a selection of exciting orchestral pieces your family will love, this is sure to be an unforgettable first concert experience for young music-lovers aged 5 and above.

FUNharmonics: Stan and Mabel

Royal Festival Hall

Stan the dog and Mabel the cat are troubled by the treatment of all the animals in their city. After being captured and thrown into the School for Wild and Dangerous Animals and then forced into jobs, Stan, Mabel and their animal friends embark on an epic escape! Will they find a safe place to call their home? Presented by Polly Ives, this lively, interactive story with music by Paul Rissmann and words and illustrations by Jason Chapman will delight audiences aged 5+ and their grown-ups. With other orchestral treats to enjoy and lots of ways to join in, it’s the perfect day out for all the family.

Paul Rissmann

Events

Upcoming events

May 17, 2026

FUNharmonics: Stan and Mabel and the Race for Space · London Philharmonic Orchestra

Past events

May 17, 2025

Stan and Mabel: The Race for Space · London Mozart Players

Oct 26, 2024

FUNharmonics: Stan and Mabel · London Philharmonic Orchestra

About

Paul Rissmann hasn't added a bio