This heart-warming stage production brings one of the nation’s favourite picture books to life in a magical musical adventure. Packed with delightful puppets, catchy songs and Julia Donaldson’s beloved characters, it is a beautiful tale about friendship, kindness and the joy of helping others that continues to delight audiences since first opening in 2022.
George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. But after a trip to a fancy clothes shop, he has a spectacular new look: smart trousers, a smart shirt, a stripy tie, and shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town… until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help – and his clothes!
The Smartest Giant in Town is based on the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, the UK’s leading picture book partnership. Their books together, which include classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child, are loved around the world and have sold more than 75 million copies globally. The Smartest Giant in Town was first published by Macmillan Children’s Books in 2002.
Julia Donaldson says: “I wrote ‘The Smartest Giant in Town’ twenty years ago but the theme of generosity and kindness seems just as relevant today. The story really comes to life in Little Angel’s adaptation, which is also very faithful to Axel Scheffler’s brilliant illustrations. I saw the show when it first opened at Little Angel Theatre and the whole audience – including me – loved the puppets and enjoyed the songs. I’m so pleased that now more children will be able to experience it”
From the award-winning Little Angel Theatre (A Squash and a Squeeze, Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book) and West End producers Fierylight (Peppa Pig, Bing, Octonauts, The BFG), the production is adapted and directed by Artistic Director Samantha Lane, with music and songs by award-winning musician Barb Jungr. Set and costume design is by Kate Bunce, puppets are designed by Judith Hope and lighting design is by Sherry Coenen.
“We’re so pleased to bring The Smartest Giant in Town back to St Martin’s Theatre for 2026. The show captures all the warmth, humour and heart of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s story. It’s such an uplifting story which reminds us that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference, and we can’t wait to share it with even more families this Christmas”
The Smartest Giant in Town will once again play at St Martin’s Theatre, in tandem with The Mousetrap, offering families a magical theatre experience in the heart of London over the festive season.
