Never too old to see monsters (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Never too old to see monsters

1:30pm Friday 7th December 2007

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IF you thought some shows were strictly for youngsters, think again: Toby Mitchell, who co-founded children's touring theatre company Tall Stories, says his productions are always tailored towards the whole family.

His latest show, Monster Hits, is currently running at Norden Farm until December 29 and he promises young and old will enjoy it.

"We only put on shows that we ourselves would want to watch."

Toby Mitchell

"We only put on shows that we ourselves would want to watch," explains Toby, who spent his early childhood in Amersham and Chesham Bois.

"We want to do what Shrek and Toy Story achieved, which was to include adults and youngsters alike, so we make sure our shows are enjoyable for everyone. That is key."

Premiered at this year's Edinburgh Festival, Monster Hits revolves around a young boy named William (played by Paul Curley), who has a vivid imagination. In contrast, Grandpa (Thomas Warwick) is an old man who has none. Staying with grumpy Grandpa for the first time, William attempts to go to sleep in his attic room, but there are some unusual noises up there. He investigates and finds none other than a pair of music-loving monsters living above his room.

The concept for Tall Stories' latest show came about after Toby heard some songs written by Jon Fiber and Andy Shaw, about monsters who love music. Together with co-founder Olivia Jacobs, who directs the show, Monster Hits began to take shape.

"It was the first time we'd written a story in that way listening to the music first," says Toby. "And it took a few months to get the concept right. But now the show is good fun, has plenty of high energy and I think we've managed to come up with a story with lots of heart."

Tall Stories, which this year celebrated its tenth anniversary, has earned something of a reputation over the years for devising imaginative stories that appeal to all ages. Past productions include Rumpelstiltskin, Snow White, The Owl And The Pussycat and The Snow Dragon, which enjoyed a successful run at Norden Farm last year.

The innovative company is also responsible for adapting Julia Donaldson's hugely popular children's story The Gruffalo, and its sequel, The Gruffalo's Child, into a successful stage version.

Monster Hits runs at Norden Farm Centre For The Arts, Maidenhead, until Saturday, December 29. Suitable for ages three and up. Tickets and details: 01628 788997 or www.nordenfarm.org

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