David Walliams Awful Auntie – A Review *****

Ad -We were gifted these tickets in return for review. All opinions are our own.

Introduction

David Walliams’ “Awful Auntie” is being brought to life by the Birmingham Stage Company, in a delightfully thrilling adaptation of the popular children’s book. The production captures Walliams’ humorous yet poignant storytelling, presenting a fantastic show that is both engaging and entertaining for audiences of all ages. My 6-year-old was belly laughing throughout, as was my husband! Thank you for coming to read David Walliams Awful Auntie – A Review.

Set Design

From the moment the curtain rises, the set design impresses with its creativity and attention to detail. The use of rotating sets and clever props transports the audience from the spooky Saxby Hall to the eerie countryside, maintaining a seamless flow throughout the performance. It really is mind-blowing how a seemingly simple set can be so intricate and clever, transporting us effortlessly from scene to scene.

The Cast

The cast delivers standout performances, with each actor embodying their character’s quirks and idiosyncrasies perfectly. Annie Cordoni shines as the brave and resourceful young Stella Saxby, capturing the audience’s hearts with her spirited performance. Neal Forster’s portrayal of the wicked Aunt Alberta is wonderfully over-the-top, striking a perfect balance between menacing and comically absurd. My children’s favourite was Zain Abrahams, as the hopelessly forgetful and confused Butler, Gibbon.

Special mention must also be made of Wagner, Aunt Alberta’s owl, brought to life through the impressive puppetry skills of Emily Essery. The puppeteers’ skillful manipulation and the owl’s expressive movements make Wagner a memorable character in his own right, contributing to some of the production’s most humorous and touching moments.

Conclusion

We have seen plenty of David Walliams adaptations and whilst we love them all, this is our favourite so far. It combines strong performances, innovative staging, and a captivating story to create an unforgettable theatrical experience. I really recommend you get tickets to see this fantastic show.

If you would like to see some of my other theatre reviews, check out The Wizard of Oz here and Everybody’s talking about Jamie here. Tickets for future shows can be bought here.