Freckle Productions are delighted to bring their latest production, a world premiere stage adaptation of Tabby McTat, based on the book by Julia Donaldson with illustrations by Axel Scheffler, to Scarborough’s Stephen Joseph Theatre next month, as part of a UK Tour.
Tabby McTat is a busker’s cat with the loudest of meows. He sings all day long with his best friend Fred, until one day they get separated. Tabby finds shelter and a new life with all the home comforts a cat could dream of, but he soon misses his old friend. Will they ever find each other? Brought to life on stage with original songs and inventive puppetry, Tabby McTat is a heart-warming story of friendship and loyalty.
Tabby McTat is Freckle Productions’ latest adaptation of a book by Julia Donaldson, following their acclaimed productions of Stick Man and Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales. Best known for her popular rhyming stories for children, especially those illustrated by Axel Scheffler, Julia Donaldson is the multi-award-winning author of some of the world’s best loved children’s books, most notably the modern classic The Gruffalo which has sold over 13 million copies worldwide.
Julia Donaldson says: “I have a very soft spot for Tabby McTat, perhaps because I used to be a busker myself, and also because I am a great cat-lover. So I’m absolutely delighted that Freckle Productions are going to be dramatising my story and I can’t wait to see it.”
Jen Sutherland and Jay Green of Freckle Productions say: “We are delighted to be bringing another new production of Julia Donaldson’s work to the stage. Tabby McTat is a fabulous book and we are thrilled to be working with Alan Lane and Tristan Parkes, two genuine visionaries, who are bringing something very special to theatre for young people and their families.”
Tabby McTat is directed by Alan Lane and designed by Heledd Rees, with music and musical direction by Tristan Parkes. The assistant director is Georgia Green.
Alan Lane says: “Of all of Julia’s much-loved stories, perhaps Tabby is the one best suited to delight a live audience – the story of a feline who loves to perform. We’re so excited to introduce a young audience to this singing cat in the furry flesh!”
Suitable for children and families of all ages, Tabby McTAt has a running time of approximately one hour.
Tabby McTat can be seen in the Round at the SJT at 2pm and 4.30pm on Sunday 14 October. Tickets cost from £10, and can be booked at the box office on 01723 370541 or via the website: www.sjt.uk.com
