We recently had the pleasure of watching The Smartest Giant in Town at The Lowry, and it was nothing short of fantastic. As a musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson's beloved book, which is a nightly favourite in our household, it was a joy to see the story come to life on stage. My son Leo, who adores the book, was captivated throughout the entire performance.
The show took place in the Quays Theatre, the more intimate of The Lowry’s theatres. We were seated in the Stalls on Row F, right in the centre (seats 5 to 8), and the view was excellent. Leo and Alice could see the stage perfectly, aided by the booster seats available at the entrance—though it’s worth noting that these are only available for use in the Stalls for safety reasons.
The show, co-produced by Little Angel Theatre and Fiery Light Productions, runs for about 45 minutes, making it ideal for younger audiences (recommended for ages 2-8). The length was just right for keeping little ones engaged without them getting restless. The adaptation skilfully expanded on the book’s narrative with original songs that were both catchy and seamlessly integrated into the story. The children were clapping along, clearly enjoying every moment.
The puppetry was a true highlight of the show. The puppets, designed by Judith Hope, were nothing short of enchanting. Leo’s favourite was the big giraffe, but the fox was equally delightful. The puppeteers, Heidi Goldsmith and James Kenningale, were exceptional, bringing each character to life with distinct voices and charming performances. The giant himself, played by Ashton Irwin, was both funny and endearing, even though we never saw his face due to the oversized giant head.
For those unfamiliar with the story, it follows a kind-hearted giant who, after buying a set of new clothes, gradually gives them away to help animals in need. It’s a touching tale about friendship and generosity, themes that resonate strongly with children and adults alike. The show even incorporated a bit of French, encouraging the children to participate in counting, which added an educational element.
Out of all the children’s shows we’ve attended, this one stands out as a favourite. It’s a delightful, family-friendly production that I would highly recommend. If it returns to The Lowry, we’ll definitely be back. The tickets are reasonably priced at £18 each, and there are relaxed and audio-described performances available, making it accessible to a wider audience. The show runs from February 21st to February 26th, with two performances daily at 11 AM and 1:30 PM.
In summary, I give The Smartest Giant in Town a well-deserved five stars. It’s a must-see for families with young children, offering a perfect blend of entertainment, education, and heartwarming storytelling.
The Smartest Giant in Town is on at The Lowry until 26th February 2023, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show including where it will be touring to click the button below for the shows official website.
Photo Credit - The Lowry
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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