Promo Post - Goodnight Mister Tom – From The Book To The Big Stage

Since my main two hobbies are reading and going to the theatre, especially in London's West End, when I approached about if I wanted share with you all a guest post at Goodnight Mister Tom, I clearly couldn't resist. 

If there were any children’s books that just had to transition to the London stage, Goodnight Mister Tom is most definitely it.

A classic read for children and adults alike, Michelle Magorian’s heart-warming tale of love and contentment in the most unlikely of places has been delighting readers since it was first published in 1981. After a TV adaptation in 1998, it has taken some time for the West End stage to snap this up, but we’re glad it’s finally arrived!

The story centres around Tom Oakley, a somewhat disgruntled old man, and William Beech, a young WWII evacuee who is sent to live with Mr Oakley in the countryside. Both have suffered hardships and it is this that brings them together, with Mr Oakley soon becoming fiercely protective of young William as he learns more about the troubled family life he has left behind.
Now playing live in the West End for a strictly limited season, Goodnight Mister Tom is captivating audiences each night with a cast that effortlessly reproduces the tender moments of the book whilst adding tension and concern at all the right moments too.

Adapted for the stage by David Wood, the cast includes acclaimed thespian David Troughton as Mr Oakley and 3 young boys who alternate with the role of William Beech. The dynamics and chemistry on stage has earned the stage show some fantastic reviews, including The Mail on Sunday’s perfect summary: 

‘The production of Michelle Magorian’s tear jerking children’s classic lights up the West End.’

There is a moral theme running throughout the story of friendship first and foremost. Age is just a number as these two characters prove and both have experienced loss and loneliness which naturally serves to draw the two together. The stage show captures this theme well.

Goodnight Mister Tom in the West End is only running until 20th February 2016 so be sure to get your tickets whilst they are available. The production is staged at the Duke of York’s Theatre, London. Book tickets here.

If you have seen the show, then I would love to know your thoughts. Have you seen other shows in the theatre that you have read the book of? Which do you prefer the show or the book? Please do have your say, I'll be interested.