David Walliams’ Awful Auntie Review

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David Walliams’ “Awful Auntie” has been brought to the stage by the Birmingham Stage Company, in an exciting adaptation of the popular children’s book.

It captures Walliams’ instantly recognisable humour and poignant way of storytelling, which makes for a fantastic show that is both engaging and entertaining for any age. The set design seemed very basic at first until the first scene change. It’s at that point that the creativity and attention to detail is magically revealed. The use of rotating intricate sets and clever props transports the audience from the eerie yet grand Saxby Hall to the dark & misty countryside, maintaining fluidity throughout the show. The way it moves us from scene to scene was really impressive and some of the “bigger shows” could take some tips.

Zain Abraham’s portrayal of the wicked Aunt Alberta is fantastically over-the-top, striking a perfect balance between menacing and silly. Annie Cordoni was excellent as the brave and cunning Stella Saxby, capturing the everyone’s hearts with her excitable performance. Her chemistry with Matthew Allen who played the lovable ghost Soot was clear to see. Frankie Oldham’s portrayal of the senile butler Gibbon also provided some light comic relief throughout.

Wagner, Aunt Alberta’s devious owl was brought to life through the impressive puppetry skills and voice acting of Emily Essery. Her skilful manipulation makes Wagner a memorable character.

My only negatives would be that It sometimes felt rather predictable, and having not read the book myself, it sometimes felt like it was riding on the coat tails of Matilda if I’m brutally honest.

We have seen a couple of David Walliams’ adaptations and whilst we love them all as a family, I still preferred the Demon Dentist.

Awful Auntie was still hugely impressive and really entertaining though, and it’s definitely worth a watch! It combines strong performances, innovative staging, the music you’d expect to hear in from a David Walliams book, and a captivating story. It’s a great choice for introducing youngsters to the magical world of theatre.

Speaking of youngsters, I took two experts with me in the field of children’s shows. Their knowledge is unmatched, and their honesty is unquestionable. They’re none other than my two youngest sons Callum & Harrison Maddox. Here’s what they had to say…

“I liked when they played the tricks on the Awful auntie. I also liked how the owl was made, how it flapped its wings and how there was a person operating it. I would love to watch it again!” Callum - Age 8

“I liked all of it, especially when the vape exploded! (I think he meant the pipe, but that’s the youth of today I suppose!) I also liked the cage with the tazer and when they put glass on the toilet to make it splash back at the awful aunty! I liked how they made the owl move too. I would see it again!” Harrison - Age 6

I couldn’t agree with them more!

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

David Walliams’ Awful Auntie is playing at the Regent Theatre until and including Saturday 5th October. Tickets are on sale and are available by calling the Regent Theatre Box Office on 0844 871 7649.

You can also visit www.atgtickets.com/stoke for tickets and info.