The Ugly Duckling & Other Stories at Lichfield Garrick

Fairy tales are a favourite in our house so this Christmas' family show at Lichfield's Garrick theatre really appealed to my family. In the intimate Studio Theatre within the The Garrick we watched The Princess and the Pea; The Steadfast Tin Soldier; The Emperor's New Clothes; and The Ugly Duckling. These are all Hans Christian Anderson tales that many of you will be familiar with.

The theatre was full of young families in Christmas jumpers who had come along to enjoy the show. The three actors who lead the performances came out into the audience before the performance began. This was a really nice touch and helped little children relax and meet the story tellers.

The Princess and the Pea was the first story. My girls love this fairy tale and were able to follow exactly what was going on. We loved the funny prince and the posh queen who were trying to determine if the girl washed up on their door step was a real princess. There were funny bits and clever bits. We liked the bed of many mattresses made from step ladders. Of course the princess had a terrible night's sleep and they all lived happily every after.

The next tale was the Steadfast Tin Soldier who fell in love with the paper doll across the playroom. After a series of misfortunes took him away from her, they were to be finally reunited - with a sad twist at the end.

The Emperor's New Clothes came next and this was the funniest tale. As the emperor strode around the stage in his fancy attire we watched him get sucked in and tricked. My three year old knew exactly what what going to happen next but this helped her follow the story and enjoy the show. Some audience members were invited on stage to form part of the crowd and joined in with lines in the show. We waited with baited breath to see if the emperor really would come out naked...and he does. I won't reveal exactly what happens but your children will laugh not blush.

The final story was that of The Ugly Duckling who, as we all know, fled the safety of the farm to escape the cruel words of the other animals. Ending on a happy note, my little one clapped loudly at the finale as the beautiful swan finally found out who she was.

This show is running at The Garrick in Lichfield between now and 24th December. Adult tickets are £13 and child tickets are £10.50. Children under 18 months pay just £3.

https://www.lichfieldgarrick.com/whats-on/all-shows/the-ugly-duckling-and-other-stories/3019#

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