Do you and your family love Beatrix Potter as much as we do? If so, Castle Howard is a must visit this May Half Term. We were lucky enough to have a sneak preview this evening and we loved it!
This is a lovely outdoor theatre production based on The Tale of Pie and the Patty Pan, The Tale of Samuel Whiskers and The Tale of Ginger and Pickles by Gobbledigook Theatre and Frederick Warne & Co. It is suitable for all ages, young and old. Even the most ardent of Beatrix Potter fans will not be disappointed.
The characterisation of Beatrix Potter is just perfect, like I have always imagined. This is a lovely production, taking you through the stories with clever set and costume changes. Beautifully laid out so the audience can get very close. We took a picnic mat and others took some camping chairs. It is outside which tonight was a touch wet at times but with the forecast set fair, promises to be brilliant this week. The music and singing throughout makes it really fun for the younger members of the audience and Eliza reports in that it was her favourite part. We voted the Ginger and Pickles business plan our best bit! Samuel Whiskers was also brilliant with the scene between him, Anne Marie and Tom Kitten a particular highlight.
It is a really interactive and fun production with the children included if they would like to be. Henry was very keen to help Tabitha Twitchett sweep and tidy the house, whereas Eliza was not up for dusting! There was a little boy who was the postman throughout. All ages were enthralled throughout. It is approx. 1 hour 20 mins with a short interval.
There is a lovely outdoor hunt around Castle Howard’s very own ‘Mr McGregor’s’ walled garden which we loved. The effort and attention to detail is clear to see, even down to Mrs Tiggy Winkle’s washing. Beatrix Potter’s animal friends will be taking up residence throughout the House as part of an indoor trail, which I am promised is amazing. Both are included in the price of admission and you can meet Peter Rabbit himself on Sunday 27th and Monday 28th May (again included in the price).
I thought it was a great production and it is evident the effort that has gone into the Tales of Beatrix Potter at Castle Howard this half term. It is a great event for children and adults of all ages. As a particular fan of Beatrix Potter and her stories, I thoroughly enjoyed it, as did the children. It is completely different to any of the television programmes and the film, so a refreshing change and despite liking those, I still thought this was brilliant.
We were invited by Castle Howard but this is a impartial view and all my own opinion.
Admission for children under 4 and Friends of Castle Howard is free. Tickets to the The Tales of Beatrix Potter Show cost £6.
The Tales of Beatrix Potter Show
Daily at 11am, 2pm & 5pm (approx. 1 hour 20 mins long)
Show Tickets:
House, Grounds & Show
Under 4 years £6.00
Child £15.95
Adult* £24.95
Gardens & Show
Under 4 years £6.00
Child £13.95
Adult* £17.95
Friends
Child Friends £6.00
Adult Friends £6.00
Other**
Child £6.00
Adult £6.00
* Free show entry for one adult accompanying one child to the show. Accompanying adult must have a valid inclusive (House & Gardens) or Gardens only ticket, which can be bought on the day
** Includes HHA, Max Cards, Yorkshire’s Great Houses, Castles and Gardens Card (usual T&Cs apply).
Outdoor performance, please dress for the weather, expect to move around and feel free to bring portable seating or picnic blankets. This performance is suitable for all ages.
Please click here to book your tickets.
If you have any queries about booking, please contact us directly on 01653 648621.
BEATRIX POTTER™ © Frederick Warne & Co., 2018. Frederick Warne & Co. is the owner of all rights, copyrights and trademarks in the Beatrix Potter character names and illustrations.
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