Families in Bath can enjoy a new stage adaptation of David McKee’s much-loved picture book Not Now, Bernard this autumn, complete with physical comedy, live music and one enormous purple monster.
Created by Bristol and North Somerset-based Roustabout Theatre, the production opens at The Egg in Bath from 26 September to 4 October, before continuing its UK tour at Front Room Theatre in Weston-super-Mare.
First published in 1980, Not Now, Bernard tells the story of a young boy who discovers a monster in the back garden. The problem is that his mum and dad are far too busy to listen to him. Bernard decides to befriend the monster instead – with rather unexpected consequences.
The story comes from David McKee, the celebrated author and illustrator also known for creating the Elmer books. More than 40 years after Not Now, Bernard was first published, the new production explores its themes of children wanting to be heard and the importance of families finding time to connect.
Roustabout’s adaptation combines physical theatre with a live score performed using traditional instruments and everyday household objects. The cast of Kim Heron, Fionn Gill and Shaelee Rooke take on Bernard, his distracted parents, the monster and a host of other characters, accompanied by musician Robin Hemmings.
The production has also been created with accessibility at its heart. Developed in collaboration with community groups and nurseries across Bristol and North Somerset, it features Makaton signing woven into the performance and every show is relaxed.
Director Toby Hulse said the production uses “as many active means of communication as possible”, including mime, Makaton-supported speech and music created live on stage.
Not Now, Bernard at The Egg
Not Now, Bernard runs at The Egg, Theatre Royal Bath, from 26 September-4 October, with performances on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10am and 1pm and weekends at 11.30am and 3pm. It is recommended for children aged three and over, runs for around an hour and tickets cost from £11.50.
