Go Behind The Curtain of The Borrowers

28 Nov 2024 | General News

Discover a magical hidden world underneath the floorboards at Hull Truck Theatre this November with The Borrowers (Friday 29 November 2024 – Saturday 4 January 2025) presenting audiences with a perfect alternative to pantomime during the festive season.

Based on the original novel by author, Mary Norton, Charles Way’s re-imagined adaptation, directed by Hull Truck Theatre’s Artistic Director Mark Babych will captivate audiences of all ages. With live music played on stage and songs by composer and co-lyricist John Biddle, this much-loved classic family favourite promises to take audiences on an epic journey and an enchanting adventure.

The Borrowers will follow Arrietty Clock and her small, but perfectly formed family as they borrow from the humans who live in the house above them. Furnishing their home and fuelling their appetites with their finds, The Borrowers, just like humans make mistakes, and here is where the real adventure will begin…into the unknown to find a new home.

Go behind the curtain of The Borrowers to find out now what audiences can expect from this year's festive production, in this interview with Actor, Bea Glancy and Director Mark Babych: 

What can audiences expect from Hull Truck Theatre’s production of The Borrowers?

Bea: Audiences can expect to be taken on a magical journey where they will meet an array of characters along the way. With gorgeous songs and amazing puppets to make it even more entertaining!  

What makes this adaptation of The Borrowers different to the film /TV versions that audiences might be familiar with?

Mark: As a theatre piece, we’ve had to consider how to approach the scale of tiny borrowers and the human world coming together without relying on special effects and camera trickery – so embracing the imaginative world of theatre has been key to how we tell this enchanting story.

Can you give us any hints on how you will be creating the magical miniature world of The Borrowers?

Bea: The props have a huge part to play in this. Everything that would be about a finger long is about as tall as me! We also have tiny puppet versions of ourselves to help the audience remember just how teeny borrowers really are.

How has it been using puppets in this production?

Bea: Using puppets has been amazing! I’ve learnt so much more about Arrietty as a character through watching a mini version of myself. It’s incredible how the cast has learnt to bring pieces of wood to life and give them personality. They really help create the magic in this captivating festive production.

How is the story, originally written by Mary Norton in 1952, still relevant to audiences in 2024?

Mark: There is a definite parallel to modern world. Mary Norton originally wrote the story in response to the invasion of Czechoslovakia and throughout the decades since we have seen numerous examples of people forced to flee their homes through no fault of their own, seeking sanctuary.

How will the new music by John Biddle help transport audiences throughout the production?

Mark: John Biddle (composer) and Charles Way (writer) have worked together to embed musical passages and song throughout the story, giving the production opportunities to raise the emotional stakes at play as well as keeping a real sense of adventure, fun and some festive spirit. Our version of the story is set in the 1940s and there if a definite nod to that tumultuous decade through the musical score.

What makes the character of Arrietty endearing to audiences? Is she like you as a person?

Bea: Arrietty is always longing for more and exciting new adventures, as well as getting herself into some sticky situations. She’s like me in that she has a strong sense of self and is super excited for her future, she isn’t afraid to break the mould from her family’s limited expectations.

Why should the audience be excited about seeing The Borrowers this Christmas?

Mark: It’s a classic adventure story that all the whole family can enjoy together - it has real heart and excitement.

What can we learn from The Borrowers?

Bea: Just because someone looks different to you, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have anything in common. They could feel, think and live in the exact same way, if you only look a little closer. And it’s also an important reminder to take on new challenges with bravery. 

Tickets are now available to join Arrietty and the magical cast of characters as The Borrowers explore themes of adventure, friendship and the joy of love and togetherness. Recommended age guidance: 7+.