The Scarecrows Wedding at The Lowry Manchester Review
The Scarecrows Wedding
The Lowry, Manchester
28 October to 1 November 2015
Reviewed by Jo Flaherty
Wow! Absolutely brilliant. The Scarecrows Wedding, a stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s most recent book is at the Lowry Theatre until Sunday (1st November). It is set in the Quays Theatre, which is a lovely intimate – great for little ones, who will have a good view wherever they are seated.
I went to see the show with my three year old; my kids love Julia Donaldson’s books, but I wasn’t sure how well they’d translate to the stage. Scamp Theatre received great reviews for their production of Stick Man, and even a ringing endorsement from Julia Donaldson, so I was looking forward to seeing their latest adaptation.
Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay are two scarecrows, totally in love. When Harry proposes to Betty, they start making plans for “the best wedding ever”, and where better to start than with a list? As they set about getting together all the items on the list Harry needs to leave the farm to find one last thing. Whilst he is away, another scarecrow comes along… will he steal Betty’s heart? Will Harry get back to the farm in time?
Engaging, charming and heartwarming the production really brings the book to life, with Donaldson’s words perfectly interspersed with Darren Clark’s music and lyrics. The casting is great, with all three actors playing their role impeccably – Muireann Bird is a beautiful Betty, with a wonderfully expressive face that lends itself so well to this piece. The show is just the right length for the target audience, with the kids (and adults!) in the audience totally rapt.
Whether you have read the book a thousand times, or you’re new to Donaldson’s work, you’re sure to love this production. One of the best pieces of children’s theatre I have ever seen. Tickets are still available – and I would thoroughly recommend this show.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £11 to £13 (includes £2 booking fee).
The Scarecrows Wedding is at The Lowry in Manchester until 1 November 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0843 208 6000.
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, Manchester, M50 3AZ | 0843 208 6000
