Join a silly old bear and his adorable friends for whimsical adventures when new musical Winnie the Pooh visits Milton Keynes this month, writes Georgina Butler.
Christopher Robin, Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit and Owl (oh … and don’t forget Tigger too!) have captivated children for generations.
Now, theatregoers are being invited to fall in love with the familiar characters all over again by enjoying this fresh stage adaptation. The show brings Pooh and all the furry, fluffy and feathery members of the Hundred Acre Wood gang to life using inventive, large-scale puppetry.
Get ready for splendiferous songs and charming tales of childhood days spent playing deep in the wood. Honey hunts, blustery weather conditions and games of Poohsticks await!
This musical adaptation was crafted by family entertainment creator Jonathan Rockefeller. The American-Australian producer, director and writer is the founder of Rockefeller Productions, which is based in New York City and wows audiences worldwide with unforgettable theatrical experiences. Other acclaimed productions include Paddington Gets In A Jam and The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show.
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Inspired by AA Milne’s beloved books and the classic Disney featurettes, Winnie the Pooh broke theatre box office records when it premiered in New York in 2021. It delighted crowds in New York and Chicago, before spreading the joy further with a US tour. The UK tour opened in Southampton on 31 May.
The show features songs written by Robert and Richard Sherman for the original animated shorts, such as ‘Winnie The Pooh’ and ‘The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers’. Samples of Pooh’s hums (songs Pooh made up himself – with a little help from AA Milne) are also included. What’s more, the new orchestral score pays homage to all the Pooh Bear history at Disney. Chances are, everyone will be humming as they leave the theatre.
The role of Winnie the Pooh is being played by puppeteer, voice actor and writer Jake Bazel. He originated the role and helped to develop the production. His other credits include Sesame Street, Paddington Gets In A Jam and The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show.
Celebrated characters, magical puppetry, heart-warming music and sweet storytelling? This promises to be a must-see show for Winnie the Pooh fans of all ages.
Running time: Approximately 60 minutes.
Age guidance: 3+
Winnie the Pooh is at Milton Keynes Theatre from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 June.
Georgina Butler is an editor, a dance writer and a ballet teacher. Click here and follow her on Twitter @GeorginaLButler and Instagram @glbdancewriter
