by Philip Osment
By permission from Alan Brodie Agency
Originally commissioned and produced by Theatre Centre, London. Original Production Generously Supported by the Peter Wolff Theatre Trust

21st February to 2nd March 2003 90% Sold Out !
Directed by Brian Seward

Actors - Keagan Kang, Kimberly Creasman, Jonathan Lim, Juwanda Hassim.
Puppeteers/Performers - Chio Su Ping, Joni Tham
.

We have to give thanks the
Theatre Centre, London, for their generosity in loaning us the original Little Violet puppets, and for all their help in making this Singaporean production possible.

See the Arts Magazine review here!

 

Some Production Shots

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Little Violet and the Angel is a big family show; an unforgettable exploration for us all of the joys and heartaches of living and loving. This magical new play is funny, tender and true. We will be using a wide range of theatrical skills including puppetry, music and song to re-create this wondrous adventure.

It is the story of an apprentice guardian angel - young Gabriel - who finds his new job very tough. It's also the story of a little girl - Violet - who magically grows from age 6 months old to 6 years old on stage, using marvellous puppetry techniques. Gabriel has developed a bad cold because heaven is not as warm as you might think, and he just can't be bothered to master the harp. The Boss is always on his back because young Gabriel tends to neglect his charge, a little baby abandoned on the doorstep of an elderly couple. Violet's life and happiness hangs in the balance. The husband wants to keep the child, but the wife, wrapped up in grief for her son killed in an accident, has no time for the baby and wants to send her to the orphanage. It is Gabriel's job to make sure that the child is saved from this fate. What happens next is magical sad, funny and wonderful.

What makes this play unique is its appeal to such a wide age range. From the youngest to the oldest, there will be something to amuse, enthral and touch the heart. We really believe that this play will make a difference to those who see it, especially children, young people, and families - those who are the future of the Arts in Singapore.

See the Arts Magazine review here!

REVIEWS of the UK Production.

"Sometimes it's hard to be an angel"
Philip Osment's play, as tender as a baby's bottom, was the joint winner of the Peggy Ramsay award, Britain's richest play-writing prize.
The fact that it is intended for children is irrelevant. It is an exceptional play that maps the contours of the human heart, and one that both children and adults can enjoy together.
There is no pushing of curriculum-based issues here, no condescension; just riveting storytelling and a compassionate understanding of the way people choose either to fulfil their lives or blight them by opening their hearts or shutting them down. ...this is a meaty, emotionally mature play that has the making of a modern classic.
Lyn Gardner - The Guardian, Saturday June 23, 2001

What a sparkling gem of stimulating entertainment is this piece, joint winner of the Peggy Ramsay Play Award 2000.
Jon Holliday - The Stage May 31st 2001