Preview: The Selfish Giant at ARC Stockton

Enchanting family show comes to Stockton this half-term

The Selfish Giant

ARC Stockton

Friday 23 – Saturday 24 February 2024

Inspired by the touching children’s story ‘The Selfish Giant’ by Oscar Wilde, Bristol's two leading family theatre experts are combining forces to explore an unusual friendship, and how even the grumpiest giant’s heart can melt when Spring finally comes. Following previous success of productions such as ‘Perfect’ from Tiny & Tall Productions, formerly Tessa Bide Productions, (★★★★ The Guardian), ‘The Selfish Giant’ will be coming to ARC in Stockton this half-term.

Photo: Paul Blakemore

Grinter is a giant. She lives happily alone in her huge cold house, surrounded by her huge snowy gardens, enclosed by her high, frost-covered walls. She shuts out the world, because long ago, the world shut her out, and so she hides, safe and quiet in her peaceful, icy home. Outside the towering walls of her enormous garden, the world has been changing and there is very little green left. One day, the children - tired of playing on hard roads and grey rooftops - find a chink in the giant's wall and climb through, changing the course of the children’s and Grinter's lives forever.

Through powerful storytelling, captivating puppetry, beautiful design, enchanting music and a sprinkling of magic, the handpicked team have created a touching and beautiful production for children and adults. Adapted for the stage by the company, the production is directed by Adam Fuller, with movement direction from Laura Street, circus direction from Gwen Hales and original sound design by Matt Huxley.

This production has been created with support from partner organisations; May Park Primary School in Bristol, Shapwick SEN School in Somerset, Headley Park Community Centre, Headley Park Primary School, Bristol Grammar School, The Marine Theatre and The Young Vic, as well as The Omnibus, Clapham. ‘The Selfish Giant’ has been funded by Arts Council England.

“The Selfish Giant is beautifully crafted by these two leading family theatre experts. A perfect way to occupy young minds.” Bristol 24/7 

Tickets:

The Selfish Giant will run at ARC Stockton from Friday 23 – Saturday 24 February, with performances at 11.30am and 2.30pm (the performance at 2.30pm on Saturday 24 February will be BSL interpreted) https://arconline.co.uk
Age suitability: 3+ (up to 10 yrs)

Running time: approx. 55 minutes (no interval)

Ticket price:  £8 / Groups of six or more £6.50 (inc. booking fees)