A family treat for Christmas: The Gruffalo’s Child

From The Gruffalo's Child by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

'The snow fell fast and the wind blew wild.
Into the wood went the Gruffalo’s Child…'

This week we braved the wind and the rain to go to the press night of Tall Stories’ production of The Gruffalo’s Child which is currently at artsdepot in North Finchley, London until the end of December and then on tour around the UK.

Trekking across the whole of London with two 6-year-olds and an almost 2-year-old after school was always going to be risky but we weren’t disappointed. Tall Stories’ faithful adaptation of The Gruffalo’s Child by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler brilliantly compliments the original book. In this irresistible sequel, the Gruffalo’s young daughter sets off one wintry night in search of the mythical Big Bad Mouse and meets Snake, Owl and Fox along the way.

Performed by three actors with a simple set of trees that can be moved about the stage with the moon in the background, the story is narrated by the wily mouse and the Gruffalo’s daughter perfectly captures the wonderment and innocence of a 4-year-old.

The Gruffalo, Snake, Owl and Fox are all played by the same actor with the tricky trio lovably portrayed as stereotypes. Snake is a glamorous but dodgy Italian, Owl a posh eccentric retired from the air force and Fox is a Cockney geezer. All characters are brilliantly brought to life using simple costumes and physical movements.

The Gruffalo, his daughter and Mouse

Copyright Geraint Lewis

Snake with the Gruffalo's child and Mouse

Copyright Geraint Lewis

Fox with the Gruffalo's child and Mouse

Copyright Geraint Lewis

Perfectly pitched at young children there is also plenty of humour adults will enjoy too. Enlivened by songs and beautifully choreographed, this is a really enjoyable performance for the whole family. The perfect Christmas treat.

Find out where The Gruffalo’s Child will be touring to.

Read our review of The Gruffalo's Child book