Hidden beneath the floorboards of a cosy East Yorkshire country house lies a magical, miniature world brought to life in The Borrowers, a spellbinding production that weaves adventure, charm, and wonder into a perfect festive treat for all ages. Last weekend, I had the joy of experiencing this production with my two children, aged 7 and 4, and it’s safe to say we were all thoroughly captivated from start to finish.
A Timeless Tale of Curiosity and Courage
The story centres on Arrietty Clock, a spirited and curious young Borrower whose family secretly resides under the floorboards of a human home. Arrietty’s journey from sheltered curiosity to bold adventure is set against the backdrop of World War II’s East Yorkshire, offering a heartwarming reminder of resilience and togetherness during turbulent times.
As Arrietty ventures out with her father, Pod, to collect supplies, the magical yet perilous scale of the Borrowers’ world unfolds beautifully. The arrival of an evacuee boy in the house above adds a layer of tension and excitement, as Arrietty’s curiosity about the “human-beans” brings unforeseen challenges for her family.
Puppetry and Performances That Mesmerise
The star of the show was undoubtedly the puppetry. My children were entranced by the intricate designs and lifelike movements of the Borrower puppets. From Arrietty’s delicate gestures to the towering “giant” humans, the seamless interaction between actors and puppets brought this miniature world to vivid life. The production’s ability to convey scale—from tiny Borrowers navigating their world to the overwhelming size of everyday human objects—was nothing short of magical.
The performances were equally stellar. The actors imbued their characters with warmth, humour, and emotion, creating a connection with the audience that felt intimate despite the story’s fantastical elements. Arrietty’s sense of wonder and determination resonated with children and adults alike, while the comically villainous Mrs. Driver and grumpy gardener Crampfurl brought plenty of laughs and drama.
A Perfect Festive Escape
Set against the evocative backdrop of a 1940s Christmas, this production felt like a warm embrace during the holiday season. Themes of family, adventure, and finding your place in the world were skilfully interwoven, making it a meaningful experience for viewers of all ages. The combination of beautifully crafted sets, atmospheric lighting, and a moving soundtrack transported us straight into Arrietty’s tiny, yet vast, world.
For those looking for an alternative to traditional pantomime, The Borrowers offers a unique and magical option. My children were utterly enthralled—my eldest couldn’t stop talking about the Borrowers’ clever “repurposing” of human objects, while my youngest declared Arrietty her new hero!
Final Thoughts
The Borrowers is an enchanting production that will leave you spellbound. With its perfect blend of adventure, humour, and heartfelt moments, it’s a must-see for families this holiday season. Whether you’re young or young at heart, this journey beneath the floorboards is sure to light up your imagination.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of The Borrowers this festive season! Running from Friday 29th November to Saturday 4th January, this captivating production takes place on Stage 1 at Hull Truck Theatre. With tickets ranging from £10 to £32, it’s an accessible and unforgettable outing for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a unique holiday treat or an alternative to pantomime, this enchanting adventure is the perfect way to spark joy and wonder during the festive period.
*I received press tickets to attend this show, but all words are my own.
Leave a Reply