Abu Dhabi’s Cultural Foundation brings Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book to its auditorium on Friday, 23 January 2026 at 5:30 pm, followed by a second show on Saturday, 24 January 2026 at 11:00 am. The venue is Cultural Foundation, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi, and it sits opposite Qasr Al Hosn, which makes navigation simple once you reach the district. For quick assistance, use the official phone number 02 657 6348, or email info@culturalfoundation.ae for programme questions. If you are coming with children, the Saturday morning slot often feels calmer (children and family-friendly).
What kind of show this is
This is a family theatre adaptation inspired by the much-loved children’s book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, and it leans into puppetry and songs rather than heavy dialogue. Because the story hops through stories within stories, it keeps younger audiences engaged while still giving adults something playful to follow. Moreover, the whole setup celebrates reading without turning it into a lecture, so it lands naturally as a weekend outing. Expect a warm, story-led production that stays light and lively (family-friendly, suitable for couples, suitable for solo).
The story vibe and why kids usually lean in
Charlie loves books, especially pirate adventures, while his sister insists reading is boring, so he tries to change her mind through one tale that leads into another. As the storytelling stacks up, the stage fills with characters that pop in and out like pages turning quickly. Then, just when it feels like you have one world figured out, another one appears inside it, which is exactly the point. It’s built to make children feel like books are a doorway, not homework (children and family-friendly).
Timing, doors, and what to expect inside
The listed duration is 60 minutes, and doors typically open 30 minutes before showtime, which gives you a useful buffer for tickets, seats, and bathroom stops. The minimum age is 2+, and venues usually allow children under two to sit on a parent’s lap, which helps families who want to try it without committing to an extra seat. Also, late arrivals may only enter at a suitable break, so arriving on time matters more than it does at casual events. Photography, audio, and video recording are typically not allowed inside, and food or drinks are usually not permitted in the theatre, so plan snacks before you go (family-friendly with clear venue rules).
Ticket prices and the simplest buying options
Tickets start from approximately AED 135, and the price can rise by seating category, so your best approach is to decide whether you want a central view or just a comfortable family row. Most visitors book through PLATINUMLIST when it is the official seller, and if you prefer in-person reassurance you can also ask at Cultural Foundation ticketing points on site. Additionally, some listings occasionally mention family bundle options, so it is worth checking what applies on your chosen date and time. Treat all ticket prices as approximately, because categories and availability can change quickly.
Getting there without turning it into a stressful trip
If you are driving in from Dubai or Sharjah, aim to arrive earlier than you think you need, because central Abu Dhabi traffic can compress in the hour before popular performances. Meanwhile, visitors coming from Al Ain often find the drive smoother, yet the final approach into Al Hosn can still slow down once you near the venue. Taxis and ride-hailing work well in this area, and drivers usually recognise “Cultural Foundation” immediately, which makes drop-off easy. If you want the least friction, arrive early, watch the crowd flow, and enter before the last-minute rush (suitable for families, couples, solo).
Parking and nearby arrival choices
Cultural Foundation notes parking options across the street as well as underground parking, and it also mentions valet service, which can be helpful if you are arriving close to showtime. However, some event notices warn that free parking slots can be limited, especially during busy weekends and festival periods, so it is smart to treat parking as a variable rather than a guarantee. Because the venue sits in the Al Hosn area, you can also plan a short walk from nearby paid public spaces if the closest spots fill. If you are attending with kids, give yourself extra time for parking and walking so you start the show relaxed (children and family-friendly).
Turning it into a fuller day out
Since the venue sits opposite Qasr Al Hosn, many families pair the show with a short cultural walk before or after, depending on the time slot they choose. For the Friday evening performance, a simple early dinner nearby often works best, then you can head in without rushing. For the Saturday morning show, arriving a little earlier lets kids settle and makes the entry process feel smoother. Keep the plan simple and flexible, and the day feels much more enjoyable (family-friendly, suitable for couples).
Weather, transport, and last practical checks
The Abu Dhabi forecast for Friday, 23 January 2026 points to mild winter conditions around 25°C in the day and about 15°C at night, while Saturday, 24 January 2026 looks warmer at roughly 28°C in the day with an evening low near 16°C, so light layers make sense if you are attending Friday night. Because traffic and parking tighten closest to showtime, arriving 30 to 45 minutes earlier usually saves you stress, and public transport can help if you prefer not to drive, with bus routes serving central Abu Dhabi and the main bus station around a short distance away. Ticket and door policies can change, and prices should always be treated as approximately, so confirm your showtime and seating choice before you leave home, especially if you are coordinating family arrivals. Arrive early and keep your ticket ready before you reach the doors. For a final reality-check on timings and local logistics, the editorial-style event notes referenced by www.few.ae can be a useful way to align expectations without overcomplicating the plan.
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