This morning, Henry (5 years), Eliza (3 years) and I headed to the Stephen Joseph Theatre to see Thumbelina. My “team” were pretty excited as they love the theatre and we were not disappointed.
Firstly, what strikes you as you walk in, is what a lovely intimate theatre the McCarthy auditorium is – ideal for children. The second thing was the set, so bright and colourful…yet simple. Perfect for the targeted audience.
Thumbelina, by Hans Christen Anderson is a lovely story of a teeny weeny girl’s quest to find a friend. Pretty much what every child can relate to. Having a girl and a boy with me, I do think it was completely appropriate to both. It is a lovely story, which adults can relate too as well. Once Thumbelina jumps down from her tulip, she resolves to find a friend and like life, the friends aren’t perfect, however it makes for a great tale with much singing and audience participation (which the kids absolutely loved, particularly Henry).
Those “so called friends” are Tobias the terrible Toad, Mr Flutterbee Butterflee the boastful butterfly and Miss Mumps the meany mouse. all of whom give the adults plenty to think about (!) whilst entertaining the children. Luckily along the way she also meets some friendly faces, such as the bugs, who try to help her on her journey, which is great fun. My personal favourite were Cedric and Percieval, the worms.
The singing is great and the story is completely engaging….the kids were transfixed. It is beautifully performed by the 3 actors (Adam Karim, Alice Kynman and Elliott Rennie) and it is very clever how they take us on Thumbelina’s adventure. Henry loved all of it with no favourites and Eliza reported in that her favourite bit was the singing. I would thoroughly recommend it and the staff at SJT looked after us beautifully.
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ge guidance: 2 years plus. Children under 18 months go FREE but they do need a ticket. Children are encouraged to join in, but if you bring very young children please consider choosing seats on an aisle or at the back so you can leave the auditorium if they should get upset.
Price: Adults £8 | Children £5
11 April 2018, 10.30am
12 April 2018, 10.30am & 2.30pm
13 April 2018, 10.30am
14 April 2018, 10.30am & 2.30pm
