hercules

Twelve young patients and their families enjoyed an unforgettable day at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane to see Hercules. Their visit included a joyful pre‑theatre gathering with magical entertainment, face painting, pizza, cupcakes and interval ice creams, followed by a special VIP meet and greet with the cast. It was a warm and relaxed experience, offering families the chance to spend meaningful time together and connect with others on similar journeys.

Spread a Smile family events are designed to give seriously ill children and young people precious moments away from treatment, hospital life and the pressures that come with navigating a serious illness. For many families, planning an outing of this kind can be challenging. Medical appointments, complex health needs and financial considerations often make special experiences like a West End trip difficult to access. By removing those barriers, we enable families to enjoy time together, have fun and experience a sense of normality during an otherwise demanding period.

After the performance, our guests were welcomed backstage for a VIP meet and greet with members of the cast. For many children, this was the highlight of the day – an extraordinary opportunity to chat with the performers, take photographs and experience a truly memorable moment. These encounters help create treasured memories that stay with families long after the day itself.

Ellie, Spread a Smile’s Head of Family Events, said:
“It’s a privilege to run these events and see the difference they make. Families often tell us how valuable it is to have something positive to look forward to alongside treatment. Giving young patients a day filled with joy and connection is incredibly important, and it’s why we do what we do.”

We also received this lovely feedback from a parent who joined us on the day:
“I just wanted to say thank you to you & the amazing Spread a Smile team for giving us  the most wonderful day! She hasn’t stopped talking about it all evening, excitedly telling her dad about how, she met all of the performers! (Even if she was a little shy at the actual meeting! That seems to have been long forgotten!) She has also asked if we can do the same next week!! No pressure!

It was the first time we had been able to make any of the Spread a Smile events, even though you’ve been in our lives since we first visited gosh over 6 years ago!”

We are deeply grateful to everyone who helps make these outings possible. Your support ensures that families caring for seriously ill children can enjoy meaningful moments of joy when they are needed most.

Please donate today to ensure we can continue spreading smiles when they’re needed most.