WRITER and activist Siobhan Dowd died in 2007 from breast cancer, before she could complete her novel A Monster Calls. It was taken on by Patrick Ness, published in 2012, became an international best seller and was adapted for the stage by Adam Peck and Sally Cookson, opened at Bristol Old Vic and won the 2019 Olivier award for best family entertainment.
Now it comes to Strode Theatre in Street from 11th to 14th November, where Karen Trevis directs a cast including Harley Compton, Marina Hann, Nicky Hann, Tris Hann, Elaine Hayne, Neil Howiantz, Ethan Jones, Hazel Perrett, Rob Prince, Braydon Smyth, Allie White and Hollie Young.
Thirteen-year-old Connor wakes from a recurring nightmare about wind and screaming and menacing darkness. He is unhappy and is bullied at school. His mother has been diagnosed with an incurable disease.
A huge yew tree, taking a human form, seems to be talking to him. It tells stories … and it wants a story in return.
This is the second adaptation of a young adult novel undertaken by the versatile company this year, following the stunningly memorable production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time in March.
Performances are nightly at 7.30.