On the 4^th of August I took my little girl to see Freckle Productions’ The Baddies which is based on the Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler book of the same name. I had previously seen Freckle’s production of Stick Man so was looking forward to the show and it did not disappoint.

Freckle has a fantastic way of staying true to the original script Donaldson’s books while enhancing the storyline to fill 60mins, a suitable length for children of all ages, and creating plenty of opportunity for audience inclusion. A highlight was getting the audience to join in with some dance moves but my little girl’s favourite part was waking up Mother Mouse and of course there were plenty of boos for the baddies! Some excellently written songs were a highlight for me and the talent on stage was as good as any seen in the west end. The cast of five worked seamlessly together to tell the story of the troll, the witch and the ghost while belting out toe tapping melodies, beautiful ballads and creating intricate harmonies, though a special mention has to go out to Lottie Mae O’Kill as Mama Mouse and the show’s narrator who kept the story moving at pace and was a wonderful story teller. The set which appeared simple at first kept growing and changing to create different scenes throughout the story and the lighting really enhanced the atmosphere whether dark and spooky or colourful and bright or the raising of the house lights to signal the audience to join in.

The Baddies is currently playing at Cadogan Hall, just a stone’s throw from Sloane Square and an easy walk from the tube for little feet. Whenever you take children anywhere it can be tricky and the venue catered for young audience members brilliantly, even handing out booster seats to everyone who wanted one on the way in. There were plenty of photo opportunities with picture frame and signs as well as a booth selling various merchandise including The Baddies book.

Overall I felt The Baddies was an excellent first foray into the theatre for younger audience members but also enjoyable for younger children and even adults. I thought the songs and performances were top class. Adults will enjoy the music, humour and performances while little ones will enjoy the audience participation! My little girl, an avid theatre goer, wanted to give the show 10/5 stars but I would settle for 5/5. An excellent production for young and old!

Review by Alexandria Wharram

The Baddies is on at Cadogan Hall until the 24th August. You can find out more and book tickets here.

If you like this review you might also like my review of Matilda, Six and Wicked.