A mouse, a bear, and a chair are set to take center stage as one of Britain’s most popular children’s books is transformed into a theatrical spectacle. “There’s a Bear on My Chair,” the award-winning picture book by Ross Collins, is receiving its first stage adaptation at London’s Southbank Centre next February, featuring puppetry from War Horse veteran Toby Olié.
Fresh rehearsal footage reveals the intricate process of bringing Collins’ characters from page to stage. The production, which marks the book’s 10th anniversary, combines puppetry, music, and innovative staging to tell the story of a frustrated mouse attempting to remove an unbudging bear from his favorite chair.
“We’re creating something equal parts funny and playful,” explains Olié, who previously collaborated with Collins on “The Elephantom.” The director’s impressive portfolio, which includes work on Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away,” hints at the magical elements audiences can expect.
The cast features some of Britain’s most experienced puppeteers, led by Fred Davis, whose performance in “Life of Pi” earned him an Olivier Award. He’s joined by Ailsa Dalling, Elisa de Grey, and Ben Thompson, whose combined credits include “The Wizard of Oz,” “Animal Farm,” and the traveling art project “Walk with Amal.”
The adaptation arrives at a significant moment for the source material. Publisher Nosy Crow is celebrating the book’s decade-long success with a special anniversary edition, highlighting its impressive 112,000 copy sales record. The new edition, featuring metallic embellishments, will hit bookstores to coincide with the show’s opening.
Premiering at the Queen Elizabeth Hall from February 18-23 as part of the Imagine Festival, the production will then transfer to Theatre Royal Bath’s The Egg. The show represents a major addition to the Imagine Festival, which annually attracts thousands of young arts enthusiasts and their families to the Southbank Centre.
The production team behind this ambitious adaptation includes composer Adam Pleeth, lighting designer Aideen Malone, and video designer Erin Guan, who is also creating accessible captions for the performance. This creative collaboration suggests a production that aims to capture both the humor of Collins’ original work and the magic of live theater.
Tickets for both London and Bath performances are expected to go on sale soon.
