Close

The Borrowers

“This captivating family Christmas show fizzes with exuberance, inventiveness and fun”

British Theatre Guide

“That is is such a delight is in no small part down to Bea Roberts’ skilful adaptation…this show is ready to smack a big smile over your face”

★★★★★ – BroadwayWorld UK

 “delightful, perfectly judged adaptation”

★★★★ – The Stage

“The Borrowers is full of wit and silliness and heart” 

– Exuent

 “With witty, loveably believable writing from Bea Roberts, The Borrowers is a whimsical little wonder to warm all hearts this wintertime”

★★★★  – The Reviews Hub


Below the floorboards of a large house in Bristol, we are plunged into the quirky, wonky, miniature world of young Arrietty and her family of Borrowers. Making use of anything and everything they find ‘upstairs’, from cotton buds to crisp packets, string to Subutteo players, the Borrowers are the original up-cyclers.

However their quiet existence is torn apart by the arrival of a family of Human Beans and soon the quiet ticking of the grandfather clock is replaced by Hoovers, TVs and the sound of Tom Jones on the radio. Arrietty longs to see what life is like for the new family of giants and her friendship with the eight year old Eddie is the opportunity to do just that.


Adapted for the stage from Mary Norton’s novel by Bea Roberts

Directed by Nik Partridge

Composer & Musical Director – David Ridley

Lyrics by Bea Roberts & David Ridley

Designer – Rosanna Vize  / Lighting Designer – Jess Bernberg / Circus Director – Gwen Hales / Assistant Director – Jenny Davies

Cast: Jessica Hayles / Simon Armstrong / David Ridley / Lucy Tuck / Peta Maurice / Ellie Showering / Craig Edwards

The Borrowers was performed at Tobacco Factory Theatres, Christmas 2018