York Theatre Royal and the National Railway Museum (NRM) team up for the must-see event of the summer as they stage a spectacular new production of E Nesbit’s much loved children’s tale, The Railway Children, through 23 August. This family theatrical event incorporates a coup de theatre never seen before as a real steam locomotive is used to bring the story to life in a specially constructed theatre space at the NRM.
The Railway Children tells the story of how the comfortable lives of three Edwardian children, Roberta, Peter and Phyllis are shattered when their Father is arrested on suspicion of betraying state secrets. The children and their Mother move from London to a modest cottage near a railway in the Yorkshire countryside, where they embark on a magical journey of discovery, friendship and adventure. But the mystery remains – where is Father, and is he ever coming back?
Originally published in 1906, The Railway Children is the most famous of E Nesbit’s novels – a collection recognised as containing some of the greatest classics of the genre. This new stage adaptation has been penned by the highly acclaimed children’s playwright Mike Kenny whose previous work includes The Little Mermaid for York Theatre Royal and Polka Theatre, and Flat Stanley, for the West Yorkshire Playhouse.
The cast will feature two faces familiar to television and stage audiences - Marshall Lancaster, best known as DC Chris Skelton in Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes and Colin Tarrant, who for 12 years appeared on ITV in The Bill as Inspector Andrew Monroe. Playing the title roles will be Sarah Quintrell (Roberta), Frances Marshall (Phyllis) and Jonathan Race (Peter). Directed by York Theatre Royal’s Artistic Director, Damian Cruden, the production will also feature one of the biggest guest stars ever to take to the stage - Stirling Single, a beautiful, green, black and gold 39 tonne steam locomotive built in 1870, which will roll to a majestic halt in front of Roberta as she saves the day and averts disaster!
Why not combine your trip to see The Railway Children with a visit to see the NRM. With its world famous Minster, and other attractions, all within easy reach of the NRM site, York is the perfect summer day out for all members of the family. -- www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
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