Picture this: a whimsical adventure where a tiny girl teams up with a colossal, kind-hearted giant to outsmart a horde of monstrous foes and prove that even the smallest voices can shake the world. That's the heart-pounding magic of Roald Dahl's beloved tale, The BFG, and it's about to leap onto the stage in a brand-new production by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) that's heading to Singapore next year. But here's where it gets exciting – this isn't just any show; it's a global premiere with a twist that might surprise you. Get ready to dive into a story that's equal parts thrilling and thought-provoking, perfect for families and dreamers alike.
Prepare yourself for a delightfully bouncy and explosively fun experience as the RSC brings Roald Dahl's iconic children's book, The BFG, to life on stage. This theatrical adaptation will enchant audiences from April 22 to May 2, 2026, at the stunning Esplanade Theatre in Singapore. For those new to Dahl's world, Roald Dahl was a master storyteller known for his imaginative tales that blend humor, adventure, and a touch of the fantastical – think Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or James and the Giant Peach. His stories often feature clever kids overcoming big challenges, making them timeless favorites that spark creativity in young minds.
The production will kick off its worldwide debut in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, this November, and Singapore will be its sole international destination. And this is the part most people miss – it's a rare opportunity to catch a fresh, original staging before it potentially tours elsewhere, highlighting Singapore's growing role as a hub for international arts.
The BFG is a collaborative effort between the RSC, Chichester Festival Theatre, Roald Dahl Story Company, Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT), and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. The RSC has a storied history of bringing magical stories to the stage, including the wildly popular Matilda the Musical, which turned Dahl's book into a hit with its catchy songs and empowering themes, and even an adaptation of Hayao Miyazaki's enchanting film My Neighbour Totoro, blending Western theatre with Eastern animation sensibilities.
At its core, The BFG follows the journey of Sophie, a brave young orphan who gets spirited away to the mysterious land of Giant Country. There, she forms an unlikely friendship with the Big Friendly Giant himself – a gentle, dream-catching behemoth who speaks in a made-up language full of words like 'hopscotchy' (meaning bouncy and playful) and 'whizzpopping' (explosively exciting). Together, they embark on a mission to thwart the other giants, who are notorious for their appetite for children. It's a tale that celebrates courage, friendship, and the idea that size doesn't matter when it comes to making a difference – a powerful message for kids learning about standing up for what's right, perhaps even inspiring real-world examples like young activists fighting for environmental causes.
This beloved story was brought to the big screen in 2016 by director Steven Spielberg, featuring a star-studded cast including Mark Rylance as the BFG, Ruby Barnhill as Sophie, Rebecca Hall, Bill Hader, and Jemaine Clement. The film captured the book's whimsical charm while adding visual spectacle, but the stage version promises an intimate, live magic that only theatre can deliver.
In this RSC production, the role of the BFG is played by the talented actor John Leader, known for his ability to bring warmth and humor to larger-than-life characters. Veteran stage actress Helena Lymbery takes on the regal part of The Queen, adding a touch of elegance and authority, while Richard Riddell portrays the menacing Bloodbottler, one of the villainous giants. These casting choices ensure a mix of seasoned performers who can convey the story's emotional depth, making it accessible even for those unfamiliar with Dahl's universe.
Tickets for this can't-miss event will go on sale starting October 15, and you can grab them through the Esplanade, SRT, or Sistic platforms. Don't wait – with limited seats for such a unique international premiere, it could sell out fast!
In a shared statement, RSC co-artistic directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey expressed their enthusiasm: 'We're overjoyed to partner with Singapore Repertory Theatre and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay to bring this electrifying stage version to audiences in the UK and around the world.'
SRT artistic director Gaurav Kripalani chimed in, calling it 'a major win for Singapore. Beyond the UK, we'll be the first nation to showcase this authentic production. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance.'
Esplanade’s chief executive Yvonne Tham added: 'We envision this show as a gateway into the wonder of theatre for children and adults with young hearts, igniting the creativity of tomorrow's generations.'
Now, here's where it gets controversial: The BFG's plot includes giants who eat children, which some might argue is too dark or frightening for young audiences. Is this a necessary element to teach lessons about bravery and morality, or should modern adaptations soften such themes to avoid scaring kids? Do you think Roald Dahl's originals hold up in today's world, or do they need updates for sensitivity? Share your thoughts in the comments – do you agree that classics like this should stay true to their roots, or is there room for reinterpretation? We'd love to hear your take!
