Sammy and the Beanstalk

an online play-with-songs

Eight-year-old Sammy and her dad used to have lots of fun together, making up stories and mixing potions in their kitchen. But something outside is scaring Dad and he doesn't have the energy to play anymore. As Sammy ticks off the days until her mum gets home, Dad becomes more withdrawn and a mysterious vine starts tapping at their windows. What does it want? And is there anything Sammy can do to help Dad be brave once more?

Olivier Award-winning OperaUpClose presents their fun and spooky, contemporary urban fairy tale, which draws inspiration from classic winter tales, both cosy and gothic, as well as opera, theatre and film to create a thrilling story-telling experience, in a wonderfully intimate setting.

Sammy and the Beanstalk is aimed at children aged 7+, families and any adult with a sense of fun and wonder. Tickets are £5 and it is free to access for schools and those on low incomes.*

“It’s a really gorgeous piece of work, which will almost certainly resonate for anyone who has struggled during the pandemic.” - The Family Stage

“a lovely 30mins of ingenuity, musicianship, on-point messaging, hope & kindness.” - Parent

“a thought-provoking piece of theatre which will genuinely speak to both adults and children of the audience.” - The Family Stage

“As well as being an entertaining show, it could also prove to be a valuable means of starting a conversation with children about their fears and feelings, as well as a powerful reminder to many adults that they are not alone.”
- The Family Stage

“[my son] was really engaged the whole way through, and loved it.” - Parent

Creative Team

Writer & Director Robin Norton-Hale
Composer Rosabella Gregory
Filmmaker & Animator Yuan Hu
Production Designer & Illustrator Anna Bruder
Production Lighting Designer Joe Price
Producer Amy Novadnieks
Production Stage Manager Tina Dézart
Dramaturg Athena Stevens
Music Mixed by Paul Cartledge
Production Sound Mixer Nigel Albermaniche
1st Assistant Sound Lubos Jurik
Camera Assistant Benoit Grogan-Avignon

Abigail Kelly
Sammy

Tom Stoddart
Dad

THANK You to everyone who supported our Crowdfunding Campaign, including:

Olivier and Elizabeth Beroud, Charles and Anne Target, Hugh and Eleanor Paget, Rex Nevett, Carolyn Ward, Peter Harrison, John Keevill, Susan Edwards, Derek Brundish, Owen Davies, Diane James, Joe McFadden, Peter Keep, Simon Burton, Jemima Haddock, and Ann-Marie Olden