Very few things in life are as determined to ruin the mood as British weather. Fortunately life does not stop because of rain and thus you find yourself in the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre immersed in a production of The Enormous Crocodile surrounded by other enthusiastic little people and their guardians.
This new musical version of Roald Dahl’s picture book incorporates tunes by Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab with lyrics by Suhayla El-Bushra, and additional music and lyrics by Tom Brady. Developed and Directed by Emily Lim, it features a menagerie of mischievous puppets by co-director and puppetry designer Toby Olié, with set and costume design by Fly Davis.
Musical theatre for children requires a lot of energy and a lot of wit. It’s no easy feat to accomplish when you have such a wide mix of ages to keep entertained but entertained we were. A lot of work has been put into making this production fun, vibrant and interactive.
The singing, the puppetry, the acting – all of it culminated in an enjoyable and vivid stage production that kept my (just about to turn) two- year-old daughter engaged throughout. The message of the show centred on team work, courage and community without being corny or condescending. The story flowed with the quirkiness that you would expect from something by Roald Dahl whose stories continue to stand the test of time.
The musical score was very well composed.
Each and every one of the cast gave it their all, again it’s important to note that they performed for just under an hour in continuous rain which is admirable.
Joanna Adaran as Trunky, Audrey Brisson as Roly Poly Bird, Laura Buhagiar as Swing, Nuwan Hugh Perera as Humpy Rumpy, and Elise Zavou as Muggle Wump/Teacher were all fantastic in their own right but a special shout out goes to Malinda Parris as The Enormous Crocodile who really brought her character to life.
This is one for the little people and the big people alike. Go and see it.
Need to know: The Enormous Crocodile runs at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre until 8 June 2024. | Find out more
