The Tiger Who Came to Tea at Buxton Opera House Review

Reviewed by Alexander Wilde

“Once there was little girl called Sophie, and she was having tea with her Mummy in the kitchen. Suddenly there was a ring at the door…” So reads the opening of the beloved picture book, ‘The Tiger who Came to Tea’. Who could it possibly be? the pair wonder and so begins the amazing tale of the most unexpected guest!

Written by the wonderful writer and illustrator Judith Kerr OBE – famous children’s author of the classic ‘Mog the Cat’ picture books and, for older children, semi-autobiographical works such as ‘When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit’. Judith Kerr was born in Berlin, 1923 but escaped from Hitler’s Germany with her parents and brother in 1933 when she was nine years old. The family passed through Switzerland and France before arriving finally in England in 1936. Her stories have sold over 10-million copies around the world, delighting generations and her services to children’s literature and holocaust education are incomparable. ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’ was first published in 1968 and based on the bedtime story she made up for her own daughter. They both loved visiting the Zoo and seeing the tigers, so the visitor who caused so much kerfuffle was born.

Over the years, I must have read this lovely story dozens of times to both my children, so I was delighted for our family to be invited to review the stage production of a story which has elicited so much joy.

The book’s vibrant, colourful artwork illustrates the Tiger’s antics and the family’s expressions, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement on each page and the simple yet captivating plot resonates with children, highlighting the joy of unexpected moments and the importance of kindness and hospitality. The same can be said for this adaption: the cozy, vibrant kitchen set immediately transports the audience into the heart of the story; and the bright costuming is perfect. The attention to detail is remarkable, with each element designed to reflect the book’s illustrations, making it feel as if the pages have sprung to life.

The cast’s performance is outstanding. The characters, from Sophie and her mother and father to the lively and mischievous tiger, are brought to life with a perfect balance of whimsy and authenticity. The puppetry used to portray the tiger is a highlight, captivating the audience with its larger-than-life movements and expressions. Children in the audience are sure to be mesmerized by its antics. The interactive nature of the show, with the cast engaging with the audience, particularly the younger viewers, creates a sense of shared joy and involvement, making it a memorable experience.

Staying true to the story, with lots of unexpected extras, performed by a talented cast of four, the enthralling show was everything I could have hoped for. Packed with charm, sing-along songs, laughter and plenty of clumsy chaos, ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’ is “the cat’s whiskers” when it comes to family-friendly productions for all ages. Lasting a punchy 55 minutes, it will certainly hold the attention of even the fidgetiest toddlers. An enchanting homage to one of the world’s favourite picture books. Just meowvellous!

Rating: Five Purrfect Stars

Whether you’re reliving the magic of the book or introducing this beloved story to a new generation, book now:
Morning and afternoon shows running until Wednesday 16th August, with tickets priced at £15, book online https://buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/the-tiger-who-came-to-tea, visit or call the Box Office 01298 72190.
Buxton Opera House, Water Street, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6XN

The Tiger Who Came to Tea continues its tour until April 2024 and is on stage in the West End until September 2023. For information visit https://www.tigerstealive.com/

The charming, Edwardian Buxton Opera House, and neighbouring Pavilion Arts Centre, stand within the heart of the clean, well-lit, and popular Peak District spa town. The grand architecture welcomes you to the beautiful Pavilion Gardens – offering vast grounds to explore with a boating lake, miniature train, play areas, fountains, and wildlife to see.

The main foyer is elegant, providing easy access to all levels and toilets. You are sure of a warm greeting and a great atmosphere. The bars/concession stands are well manned, stocked and of standard prices for theatres. I have sat in both stall and dress circle seats; both are comfortable and provide excellent views of the stage.
The Theatre is surrounded by a range of bars, restaurants, and hotel options for a wonderful day or night out in the bustling town. Arriving by car, routes to the theatre were well signposted and nearby parking was plentiful. The town is also well served by train and bus stops, within walking distance.