In 1697, the story “Master Cat; or, Puss in Boots” by Charlies Perrault was first introduced to audiences in “Histoires ou contes du temps passé” and it would go on to become one of the best known French literary tales of all time. Since its publication and its subsequent translation into English early in the next century, it has been held in high regard, with audiences around the world familiar with the tale of “Puss in Boots” and younger audiences now discovering the character voiced by Antonio Banderas in the “Shrek” series of films.
Now the story comes to the Arts Theatre in Pantomime form as the London venue once again teams up with Tiny Tim Productions, the group behind the Arts Theatre’s previous pantomime hit “A Christmas Carol”, which starred Gareth Hale during December 2009. It also features the directing talents of Susie McKenna, who has been behind some much-loved shows, whilst Steve Edis – a regular of the National theatre – steps in as composer.
Puss in Boots follows the story of an ambitious and unlikely cat who is bequeathed to a young boy following the death of his father – a mill worker. However, the boy does not take well to his inheritance having hoped for something more in line with his brothers’, but he soon comes to realise that this is no ordinary cat. This feline not only has the ability to talk, but also to demand a pair of boots and to embark upon his ambitions to make the fortunes of his master. So it seems like “Puss in Boots” is a chance for audiences to see a cat weave grand stories and invent mischievous lies.
Amongst director Susie McKenna’s credits are works such as “Beau Jest” at the Hackney Empire, a location which regularly sees her presenting successful shows and has also seen her direct “Aladdin”, “Cinderella”, “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Mother Goose”. With “Puss in Boots” she teams with Steve Edis, who has worked in television with the likes of “King Lear” and whose work at the National Theatre has earned him considerable respect.
Puss in Boots is at the Arts Theatre this Christmas season with a run taking it from Thursday 18th November 2010 until Sunday 9th January 2011.
From Leicester Square take the Charing Cross Road east exit and head right (north) on Charing Cross Road. Great Newport Street is about 50 metres on the right - the Arts Theatre is about 50 metres down Great Newport Street. From Covent Garden head left (away from the market) the directly turn left onto Long Acre. When you reach the main junction with Monmouth Street, Great Newport Street is the second turning anti-clockwise. The Arts Theatre is 50 metres down Great Newport Street.
Parking: NCP Upper St Martin s Lane. Please note that parking in central London can be expensive, please use public transport if possible.
