Discover a new past, our past, the past they never taught you at school with Terry Deary’s Twisted Tales.
This brand-new original comedy play, written by Terry Deary, author of Horrible Histories, and co-directed by Andrew Alton and James Tanton, is coming to the Victoria Theatre, Halifax on Sunday 26 June 22.
Three actors perform over 100 roles in as many minutes of fact-based, fast-paced fun! Created for families, this hilarious historical romp will take audiences on a journey through British history from the Plantagenets through to the Victorians in one wild ride. This educational and entertaining show focuses less on nobles and more on the complex and exciting ordinary person. The true heroes of history are not the conquering kings, the winning warriors or the empire builders, they are the peasants.
Based on a true story centred around a man called Mr Pimm, a Victorian schoolteacher who was appointed to organise York's ragged school. Based at Bedern Hall, this school was an orphanage and workhouse combined known as the 'York Industrial Ragged School' and the setting for our show. Mr Pimm battles against all odds to teach his pesky pupils, with hilarious consequences. With over 100 characters, original songs, unexpected highs and lows, quick costume changes and sharp wit, enjoy these twisted tales of times gone by in one wild whirlwind that will leave you rolling around with laughter!
Terry Deary is an award-winning British children's author of over 200 books, selling over 33 million copies in 45 languages. Terry is best known for the Horrible Histories series and is one of Britain's best-selling authors and the tenth most-borrowed author in British libraries. Terry says, “My goal is to bring history to life, especially the horrible bits, so the young do not repeat the mistakes of the past.”
Andrew Alton co-founded the National Production Company in 2017. An experienced theatre producer, actor and director his work spans across theatre and film. Andrews recent credits include Macbeth (2018), Complete Works of Shakespeare Abridged (2019-20) and director of Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful (2019-20), nominated for best regional production at the Whatsonstage awards. Andrew has previously worked with Terry Deary, performing together in a Horrible Histories UK Tour for the Birmingham Stage Company.
James Tanton co-founded the National Production Company with Andrew in 2017. His work as a director and actor ranges across film and theatre. Recent credits include Jekyll and Hyde (2020) and a one man version of the Michael Morpurgo book, Private Peaceful (2019-20), nominated for best regional production at the Whatsonstage awards. James has previously worked on a Terry Deary play, performing in Horrible Histories for the Birmingham Stage Company.
