Picture this: a whirlwind adventure where a tiny girl teams up with a colossal, kind-hearted giant to outsmart a horde of monstrous foes and prove that even the smallest voices can shake the world. That's the heart-pounding magic of Roald Dahl's beloved tale, The BFG, and it's about to leap off the page and onto the stage in a way that'll leave you grinning from ear to ear. But here's where it gets controversial – is this timeless story still sparking the same wonder in today's fast-paced world, or does it risk feeling a tad outdated? Stick around, because we're diving into all the details of the Royal Shakespeare Company's (RSC) thrilling production heading to Singapore next year, and trust me, you won't want to miss a single whizzpopping detail.
Get set for a hopscotchy blast of fun as the RSC brings Roald Dahl's iconic children's book to life in a stage version that's sure to enchant families and dreamers alike. This captivating adaptation will grace the Esplanade Theatre in Singapore from April 22 to May 2, 2026, offering a perfect escape into a realm of imagination and bravery.
And this is the part most people miss – the show is kicking off its worldwide debut right here in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, this November, before making its one and only international pit stop in sunny Singapore. It's a rare treat, folks, highlighting how global collaborations can bring far-flung audiences closer to the UK's theatrical treasures.
The BFG is a collaborative triumph, brought to you by the RSC alongside the Chichester Festival Theatre, the Roald Dahl Story Company, Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT), and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. For those new to the scene, think of it as a powerhouse team-up: the RSC is renowned for its Shakespearean flair, while SRT adds a local touch to make the magic feel right at home. They've got a track record of turning page-turners into stage sensations, like the wildly popular Matilda the Musical (based on another Dahl classic) and even a whimsical adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki's My Neighbour Totoro, proving they know how to blend whimsy with wonder.
At its core, the story follows Sophie, a plucky orphan girl who's snatched from her bed one night and spirited away to the fantastical land of Giant Country. There, she strikes up an unlikely friendship with the Big Friendly Giant – or BFG for short – a gentle behemoth who speaks in a made-up language full of delightful words like 'whizzpop' and 'frobscottle.' Together, they embark on a daring quest to thwart the other giants, who are notorious for their appetite for human children. It's a tale that champions courage, kindness, and the idea that size doesn't matter when it comes to making a difference – a message that's as inspiring for kids as it is for adults rediscovering their inner child. For beginners dipping into Dahl's world, imagine it like a mix of fairy tale and superhero saga, where the hero isn't a muscle-bound warrior but a clever kid with a big heart.
Of course, this isn't the first time The BFG has captured hearts; it was turned into a blockbuster movie in 2016, directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg and starring a stellar cast including Mark Rylance as the BFG, Ruby Barnhill as Sophie, Rebecca Hall, Bill Hader, and Jemaine Clement. The film brought the story's quirky charm to the big screen with stunning visuals and heartfelt performances, but the stage version promises an intimate, live energy that could make the giants feel even more towering and the dreams even more vivid.
In this theatre rendition, the spotlight shines on talented performers like John Leader stepping into the BFG's enormous shoes, the seasoned Helena Lymbery portraying The Queen with regal poise, and Richard Riddell as the menacing Bloodbottler. It's a cast that blends experience with fresh energy, ensuring the production feels both nostalgic and new.
Tickets go on sale starting October 15, and you can snag them through the Esplanade, SRT, or Sistic – so mark your calendars and get ready for a show that's bound to sell out fast.
In a shared message of excitement, RSC co-artistic directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey expressed their joy: 'We're absolutely delighted to partner with Singapore Repertory Theatre and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay to bring this electrifying stage version to audiences in the UK and around the world.'
SRT's artistic director Gaurav Kripalani chimed in with enthusiasm: 'This is a massive win for Singapore. Beyond the UK, we'll be the very first nation to host this authentic production. It's an opportunity that comes once in a lifetime.'
And Esplanade's chief executive Yvonne Tham added a hopeful note: 'We envision this performance as a gateway into the enchanting world of theatre for both the young and the young-at-heart, igniting the creativity of generations to come.'
Now, let's stir the pot a bit – while The BFG's themes of friendship and standing up to bullies are universally beloved, some might argue that in an era of social media and global challenges, does a story about giants and dream-catching still resonate, or should we be pushing for more diverse tales that reflect modern struggles? Is the stage adaptation superior to the movie for its live magic, or does it risk losing some of the cinematic spectacle? What do you think – does bringing Roald Dahl's whimsical worlds to life help preserve childhood wonder, or is it time to evolve beyond these classic narratives? Share your opinions in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you're team BFG or if you've got a counterpoint to add to the conversation!
