Attending Performances of the Antagonists at Cadogan Hall Theatre
In the heart of London, the Cadogan Hall Theatre played host to an enchanting hour-long stage performance of The Baddies, a children's show based on the popular book by Julia Donaldson. This was a new venue for the author, but the theatre's main hall, bar, and seating options with snacks for children made it a perfect fit for the family-friendly production.
The performance was filled with talent and energy, as five actors brought the story to life through singing, dancing, and acting. The trio of villains - a witch, a troll, and an ancient ghost - were joined by a brave little girl and a mouse, all portrayed with comedic flair by the talented cast.
One of the standout moments was the use of a cat puppet, which transformed into an actor midway through the performance, providing a unique insight into the cat's thoughts. The actor playing the transformed cat danced with enthusiasm, adding to the lively and comedic atmosphere of the show.
The play's style was lively and comedic, balancing the naughty antics of the villains with warmth and entertainment suitable for young audiences. James Stirling's comedic flair was particularly evident in a cabaret-style song performed by the Ghost and the Witch’s Cat. Joe Stilgoe's original music featured witty, toe-tapping songs that blended sophisticated melodies with child-friendly charm, seamlessly woven into the storytelling.
The adaptation maintained Julia Donaldson's trademark rhyming text, enhanced by fresh comic beats for clarity and humor. The story emphasized themes of courage, kindness, and understanding, reminding us that often the "baddies" are unhappy and misunderstood.
The production was noted for its buoyant energy, engaging acting, and accessibility, including relaxed and British Sign Language-interpreted performances. The creative team behind the stage adaptation included David Greig and Jackie Crichton. The show had a feel-good message delivered with gleeful mischief and was well-suited for family audiences.
As the play came to a close, the wrap-up song provided an overview of the story that had been watched, combining lines from all other songs in the show. The audience was left with a sense of joy and a newfound appreciation for the timeless themes of The Baddies.
This article is part of a series on Days Out, where we explore various family-friendly activities and events that offer a fun and memorable experience. If you're looking for a lively and entertaining day out with the little ones, The Baddies at Cadogan Hall Theatre is definitely worth considering.
[1] Donaldson, J. (2019). The Baddies. London: Macmillan Children's Books. [2] Stilgoe, J. (2019). The Baddies: Songs by Joe Stilgoe. London: Macmillan Children's Books. [3] Greig, D., & Crichton, J. (Directors). (2019). The Baddies. [Performance]. Cadogan Hall Theatre, London.
- After the engaging performance of The Baddies at the Cadogan Hall Theatre, families might consider incorporating a pet, perhaps even a cat, into their home-and-garden lifestyle, as the show illustrates the transformative power of a feline companionship.
- For families seeking a blend of literature, music, and theater that compliments their children's lifestyle, the book The Baddies by Julia Donaldson and its accompanying musical score by Joe Stilgoe make a perfect addition to their home-and-garden library, fostering an appreciation for literature, pets, and the arts.
