(Image: Supplied)
A much-loved children's classic by David McKee is heading to Darlington as part of a new UK theatre tour, bringing a giant purple monster, live music and plenty of family-friendly mischief to the stage.
Roustabout Theatre's adaptation of Not Now, Bernard will visit The Hullabaloo in Darlington on October 29 and 30 before travelling to ARC in Stockton on February 20, 2027.
First published in 1980, McKee’s picture book tells the story of a boy named Bernard who discovers a monster in his garden, only to be ignored by his distracted parents.
Bernard tries to befriend the monster—with unexpected and rather troublesome results.
Toby Hulse, director of the stage adaptation, said: "Not Now, Bernard by David McKee is an absolute classic picture book, by a true master of the form.
"I can still remember first reading it to children, and the extraordinary mixture of laughter, surprise, and disbelief it provoked.
"The book has been a firm favourite of mine ever since, although sadly its story of what happens when adults ignore children is perhaps even more relevant now, in this age of multiplying demands on our attention.
"In bringing it to the stage, we have taken the decision to use as many active means of communication as possible, including mime, speech supported by Makaton sign, and a score generated live in response to what is happening.
"Although our characters may be ignoring each other, our four performers are definitely not.
"We have a beautiful set and costume design that vividly recreates David McKee’s iconic and colour-drenched illustrations.
"This production is going to be a rich theatrical feast unlike anything you’ve seen before, thrilling, thought-provoking, and very, very funny."
Roustabout Theatre’s adaptation is aimed at young audiences but promises laughs and nostalgia for parents who grew up with McKee’s work.
The show features physical comedy, live music and a giant purple monster, all wrapped up in the company’s trademark style.
Emma Barclay, Fionn Gill and Shaelee Rooke bring the characters to life, while Robin Hemmings creates a live score using traditional instruments and everyday objects.
Laura McEwen, a renowned designer, has crafted the set and costumes to capture the bold visual style of McKee’s original illustrations.
The production is designed to be inclusive, featuring relaxed performances and Makaton signing throughout to make the show accessible to as many families as possible.
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Not Now, Bernard opens its UK tour in Bath on September 26 and will travel to venues across England and Wales until February 2027.
It will stop in Newcastle, Chichester, Nottingham, Oxford, Cambridge and Salford.
Bookings for the Darlington dates are available through The Hullabaloo, and tickets for the Stockton show can be purchased through ARC’s website.