3 minute read
Badjelly at The PumpHouse
Badjelly is back with the Monty Python treatment
Tim Bray Theatre Company, Auckland’s leading theatre for children, returns to Takapuna’s PumpHouse Theatre this school holidays! This winter, the company revisits a classic that oozes with comedy – 'Badjelly the Witch' – promising a season of theatrical magic for the whole family.
Kiwi kids have grown up with the story of Tim and Rose’s madcap adventure through the great black forest and into Badjelly’s castle, and this July children of Auckland can experience the electric cult classic stage show 'Badjelly the Witch' live! From the loony world of Spike Milligan's original tale, Tim Bray, QSM has created a Monty Python-esque comedy that sets off in search of a beloved lost cow. A quest full of twists and turns, with memorable characters and sausage-turning spells. This bustling stage show will delight children and parents alike in a one-hour stage extravaganza.
Irreverent UK comedian and writer Spike Milligan first published 'Badjelly the Witch' in 1973, after having originally written and handillustrated it for his children. The fantastical fairytale was an instant hit and has since been adapted countless times. Badjelly became particularly popular in New Zealand, where the audio drama was a mainstay on morning radio for many years and sales of the recording exceeded 40,000 units. Tim Bray’s own adaptation of the story has previously taken to the stage in 2010, 2016 and 2018, to great success, with audiences delighted to introduce the next generation of theatrelovers to this modern classic.
“It’s a rollicking ride for an hour that is well-paced and delivers plenty of laughs for all ages...Mixing a '70s style with a dash of Monty Python, the creatives have clearly had plenty of fun in creating this larger-than-life version of 'Badjelly The Witch'.” – Dione Joseph, Theatreview It’s been a long year of lockdowns, cancelled plans and digital pivots, but the company is delighted to be able to return to what they do best: presenting live theatre at the PumpHouse. Spike Milligan’s tale will be brought to life in signature Tim Bray Theatre Company style – lots of laughs, larger-than-life performances, and magical music! Marshall Smith aka Marshmellow is composing an original orchestral-style soundtrack for the production, which will be played on stage by their very own 1970's-inspired Badjelly DJ, which is sure to delight the young and young-at-heart!
“Our 2022 season was planned during the long lockdown of 2021 and this announcement has been hampered by the uncertainty of the Omicron outbreak. But all our shows are heartwarming and joyous celebrations for us all to come together once more as whānau.
'Badjelly the Witch' will be a much-needed jolt of silliness with unbridled fun, sprinkling you with joy, magic and meaning. I can’t wait to share this show with you.” - Tim Bray, QSM, director and playwright As always, access and inclusion are at the heart of everything Tim Bray Theatre Company does. This upcoming performance season includes accessible performances to ensure that all children and families can experience the joy of live theatre, no matter what their access requirements are. Accessible performances of 'Badjelly the Witch' include NZSL-interpreted performances, audio-described performances with touch tours, and sensory relaxed performances. Join beloved characters like Fluffybum the Cat, Pom Pom the Dog and Binkle-Bonk the Tree Goblin as Tim and Rose escape Badjelly’s clutches to get home safely. 'Badjelly the Witch' is the perfect chance to get the whānau together and head on an adventure with Tim Bray Photos by David Rowland / One-image.com. Theatre Company this winter!
Book now and learn more at www.timbray.org.nz – education group bookings also available. Tim Bray Theatre Company presents 'Badjelly the Witch' by Spike Milligan Adapted for the stage and directed by Tim Bray, QSM 2nd-23rd July, The PumpHouse Theatre in Killarney Park Off 2A Manurere Avenue, Takapuna Photos by David Rowland / One-image.com
Auckland’s leading theatre for children
Adapted by Tim Bray Adapted by Tim Bray
AUCKLAND TOUR AUCKLAND TOUR 2-30 JULY 2-30 JULY
