Teatro do Noroeste – Centro Dramático de Viana welcomes 5,000 children to the Theatre to experience the digital production 'Nothing More Beautiful'

The Teatro do Noroeste – Centro Dramático de Viana (Portugal) is thrilled to announce its latest foray into digital theatre with the production of "Nothing More Beautiful", a play that, across 30 sessions between 11 February and 8 March, at the Sá de Miranda Municipal Theatre, is being experienced by a total of 5,000 children from kindergarten and primary schools of the municipality of Viana do Castelo.

By going digital, having most of the set comprised of interactive rear projection, the production embraces a minimalist and eco-friendly approach, minimizing its environmental impact and marks a significant step in making the production more accessible to an international audience by exploring new artistic mediums which can be easily transported across European countries.

"Nothing More Beautiful" is an unedited and brand-new play written by Ricardo Simões and directed by Tiago Fernandes. It tells the story of four children in a Portuguese kindergarten in 2025. The narrative, told from the perspective of a young girl, recounts a childhood memory of her grandmother, who cherished the simple joy of children playing in puddles. Driven by curiosity, the children venture out to explore the playground after a rain shower, only to find themselves locked in the basement. This experience leads them to confront their fear and the consequences of their actions. However, their teacher, Graça, recognizing their innocent desire to connect with nature through play, ultimately joins them for a few minutes of puddle-jumping fun.

The play explores themes relevant to both children (3+) and adults, including the balance between rules and freedom, the importance of play, and the complexities of childhood experiences. The three boys in the story represent diverse backgrounds, including a larger boy who faces bullying, a Brazilian immigrant adapting to a new culture, and a privileged sporty boy. It emphasizes the importance of fostering values like empathy, tolerance, solidarity, and cooperation in early childhood.

Inspired by the contrasting ideas of Jean Cocteau and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry on rules and creativity, "Nothing More Beautiful" questions the way rules are taught to children in contemporary society. The play highlights the increasing trend of overprotective parenting and the resulting “physical illiteracy” in children, as described by Professor Carlos Neto. It aims to connect with audiences on an emotional level, validating children's natural feelings of kindness, tenderness, curiosity, and fear, while also prompting adults to reflect on their role as educators.

"Nothing More Beautiful" celebrates simplicity and the importance of human connection in a world increasingly dominated by technology and materialism. It underscores the value of cherishing the simple joys of childhood and prioritizing genuine human interaction. The play's themes of human dignity, freedom, democracy, and equality resonate deeply with European values, making it a compelling and relevant work for audiences across the continent and beyond.

Teatro do Noroeste – Centro Dramático de Viana is also excited to announce that it is currently in preparation for its next play, "Chaimite, A Possible Musical" which will premiere on March 27th, World Theatre Day.

"Nothing More Beautiful" is available to be presented at venues across Europe in 2026 and 2027. 

Click here for more information about the play.

Cover photo: © João Grisantes