Pinocchio's Big Splash in the Family Musical World
The new family musical adaptation of Carlo Collodi's beloved novel Pinocchio has finally arrived at Shakespeare's Globe, bringing a fresh wave of laughter and heartwarming lessons to the classic tale. Under the direction of Sean Holmes, this 14-strong cast delivers full-tilt fun, swinging from slapstick humor to poignant emotional depth.
In this version, free-thinking inventor Geppetto is no longer just a quirky character but a loving father who undergoes a remarkable transformation. Played by Nick Holder with humour and heart, his journey mirrors Pinocchio's growth into boyhood, highlighting the importance of human connection.
Meanwhile, Charlie Josephine's book is full of wit and poignancy, capturing Pinocchio's curious nature and impulsive energy through the talents of three puppeteers animating Peter O'Rourke's simple wooden design. The catchy songs, from rock'n'roll to ska, and wittily written lyrics by Fortune and Josephine make for an entertaining ride.
The villainous duo Fox and Cat are deliciously dastardly in the hands of Kerry Frampton and Lucy McCormick, while Steven Webb shines as campy Giacomo Cricket. However, it's coachman that steals the show, thanks to Steven Webb's terrifying portrayal.
One of the standout features of this production is its clever use of meta-theatricality, lovingly skewering the audience with a perfect moment when Pinocchio's puppeteers duck as he insists on moving unaided. It's these subtle moments that elevate the show beyond a simple adaptation and make it feel truly special.
Ultimately, Pinocchio teaches us that what makes us human is connection – and this production does just that. As our beloved wooden puppet navigates his way through childhood, we're reminded of the importance of love, laughter, and learning to let go. With its talented cast, witty lyrics, and expert direction, Pinocchio is a must-see for families and theatre lovers alike.
The new family musical adaptation of Carlo Collodi's beloved novel Pinocchio has finally arrived at Shakespeare's Globe, bringing a fresh wave of laughter and heartwarming lessons to the classic tale. Under the direction of Sean Holmes, this 14-strong cast delivers full-tilt fun, swinging from slapstick humor to poignant emotional depth.
In this version, free-thinking inventor Geppetto is no longer just a quirky character but a loving father who undergoes a remarkable transformation. Played by Nick Holder with humour and heart, his journey mirrors Pinocchio's growth into boyhood, highlighting the importance of human connection.
Meanwhile, Charlie Josephine's book is full of wit and poignancy, capturing Pinocchio's curious nature and impulsive energy through the talents of three puppeteers animating Peter O'Rourke's simple wooden design. The catchy songs, from rock'n'roll to ska, and wittily written lyrics by Fortune and Josephine make for an entertaining ride.
The villainous duo Fox and Cat are deliciously dastardly in the hands of Kerry Frampton and Lucy McCormick, while Steven Webb shines as campy Giacomo Cricket. However, it's coachman that steals the show, thanks to Steven Webb's terrifying portrayal.
One of the standout features of this production is its clever use of meta-theatricality, lovingly skewering the audience with a perfect moment when Pinocchio's puppeteers duck as he insists on moving unaided. It's these subtle moments that elevate the show beyond a simple adaptation and make it feel truly special.
Ultimately, Pinocchio teaches us that what makes us human is connection – and this production does just that. As our beloved wooden puppet navigates his way through childhood, we're reminded of the importance of love, laughter, and learning to let go. With its talented cast, witty lyrics, and expert direction, Pinocchio is a must-see for families and theatre lovers alike.
This new family musical adaptation of Pinocchio at Shakespeare's Globe actually sounds kinda good? 
The cast seems talented and the songs sound fun. But, like, isn't this a total money-sucking industry now? 
I mean, who can afford to spend £20+ on a ticket for a play that's just gonna be full of happy feelings and moral lessons? 
And what's up with all the fancy sets and costumes? Can't they just use cardboard boxes and call it a day like some normal people? 
Oh, and I guess it's worth mentioning that Steven Webb's coachman is pretty intimidating... 
Guess you could say he's got a "wooden" side to him. 
. But what really got me was how it highlighted the importance of human connection - it's so true that it's our relationships with others that make us who we are 
Can't wait to see this again and recommend it to everyone I know 
! The way they've reimagined the classic tale with fresh humor and emotional depth is pure magic 
. I love how Geppetto's transformation is woven throughout the story, it's like you can see him grow into the dad he was meant to be 
.
his transformation from quirky character to loving dad was everything! and charlie josephine's book is full of amazing lyrics and songs that got me singing along 
what i loved most about this production was the way it highlighted human connection – it really made you think about what makes us tick 
And Nick Holder as Geppetto? Perfect casting! I loved how the director brought out the emotional depth of Pinocchio's journey - it's so relatable, even for us adults 
what i love most is how the show pokes fun at itself - it's like, totally self-aware and that meta-theatricality? 
and those songs? unforgettable! steven webb as coachman though? chills down my spine every time 
. Can't wait to see it again 
!! steven webb as coachman tho
he was SOOO good!!! the puppeteers doing pinocchio were sooo funny esp when he tried to move on his own lol 
can't wait to see it again 
but in a good way lol! overall i'd say this musical is a must-see for anyone looking for a fun night out with the family 
I was literally laughing out loud during the slapstick humor scenes and then, like, totally got emotional when Pinocchio learned about his real dad 
. can't wait to go back for more! 
. and can we talk about coachman tho?! steven webb's portrayal was everything 
. what i loved most though was how it poked fun at itself, like when pinocchio's puppeteers ducked 
. but seriously, the show is all about connection & love 
The puppeteers are like three musketeers or something and Steven Webb as coachman is the real MVP. I'm low-key excited for this family musical and can't wait to see it with my own little wooden puppet (aka my niece)