Talisman Theatre Brings the Heartfelt Tale ‘A Monster Calls’ to Life

The monster (L: Ben Ionoff) and Conor (R: Oliver Mason) stand united in their shared pain. Photographer Robert Warner, picture composition Peter Weston.

A Monster Calls, Talisman Theatre, Barrow Road, Kenilworth, from Monday 26 August to Saturday 31 August 2024.

Preview

The Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre is thrilled to share its upcoming production of ‘A Monster Calls’ on the Kenilworth stage. Based on the multi-award-winning novel by Patrick Ness and inspired by an original idea by Siobhan Dowd this stage adaptation was devised by Sally Cookson, Adam Peck and the original company.

The devised nature of the script comes to life on stage through emotional scenes woven together via powerful physical movement sequences that creatively convey this emotional story.  The production will run from Monday 26 August at the Barrow Road-based theatre in Kenilworth.

‘A Monster Calls’ tells the poignant story of Conor, a teenager who struggles to cope with his mother’s terminal illness. Every night, Conor, played by youth theatre member Oliver Mason, is visited by a monster, played by Ben Ionoff, who tells him stories that challenge his understanding of courage, loss, and faith. This tale of a boy navigating his way through grief is both heart-warming and devastating, promising to leave audiences deeply moved.

Director Caroline McCluskey, the Talisman’s Youth Theatre leader who brought the sell-out musical ‘Matilda’ to the Talisman’s stage earlier this year, says she has thoroughly enjoyed working with some of the older youth theatre members and adults alike within the cast to bring this production to life.

Caroline says: “This story speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of storytelling in healing. This wonderful play sees Patrick Ness’s novel vividly brought to life, bringing together physical theatre, movement, storytelling, music, and effects. I am so excited to have such a wonderful cast, all of whom have embraced my ideas from the very start of the rehearsal process. Uniting our graduating youth members with an adult cast, this really is an ensemble piece. The audience will travel with Conor on his journey and this play promises to bring something unique to the Talisman stage.”

A Monster Calls. Conor and the Monster grasp hands, a bond forged in their shared struggle. Photographer Robert Warner, picture composition Peter Weston.

This play originally opened at the Bristol Old Vic in May 2018, before transferring to The Old Vic in London. The original production was directed by Sally Cookson, who is known for directing classic pieces using the devising process. This play went on to win the 2019 Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Family.

The Talisman creative team have fully embraced the devised nature of this play, with movement choreographed by Amanda Wright, set design from Steve Sanday, lighting from Nigel Elliott and sound from Richard Crump. The play promises to be a full sensory experience, including the use of strobe lighting, that will bring this beautiful story to life on stage for the local community.

Due to the compelling emotional nature of this production, which explores themes of bereavement and loss, the show is recommended for ages 12 and upwards. The show may prompt some meaningful conversations and would be ideal for parents to bring their older children along to, as well as appealing equally to adults.

Performances will run from Monday 26 August to Saturday 31 August at the Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre, Barrow Road, Kenilworth. Show times are 7:30 pm each evening with good availability across all nights. This heartfelt journey of grief, loss and healing awaits - don’t miss out!

Tickets are now available via the website www.talismantheatre.co.uk or by contacting the Box Office direct on 01926 856548.