London’s newest children’s show has arrived at the New London Theatre, The Elephantom is the National Theatre’s adaptation of Ross Collins’ popular children’s book that runs in the daytime at the same theatre as their acclaimed production of War Horse.
The Elephantom tells the magical tale of little girl who is suddenly visited by a giant ghost-elephant. All is fun and games to begin with, but there is little room for a huge blue elephant in the house and before long trouble ensues and things get very, very messy.
The production contains an ingenious mix of movement, puppetry, songs and dance to help to bring the captivating story to life for not only children, but adults as well!
It seems fitting that The Elephantom should share the stage with War Horse as both of The Elephantom’s creators, Fin Caldwell and Toby Olié, were instrumental in bringing War Horse to life on stage. Caldwell was the associate director of puppetry in the West End and Australia while Olié performed in War Horse in the original production at the National Theatre and in the West End, before becoming associate puppetry director in 2011. What’s more, War Horse co-director Maranne Elliot was brought in as consultant director on The Elephantom.
Adapted by Ben Power, The Elephantom is being performed at the New London Theatre, Drury Lane, in the daytime until 6 September 2014. The show is suitable for children 3 year and older.
Nicholas Hytner’s production of Richard Bean’s Great Britain will transfer to the Theatre Royal Haymarket following its National Theatre run, with performances beginning 10 September 2014. Public booking will open this Friday, 4 July, at 9.30am, for performances until 10 January 2015. Great Britain is designed by Tim Hatley, with video design by 59 Productions, lighting by Neil Austin, music by Grant Olding and sound by Paul Arditti. Casting for the West End run will be announced shortly.