The Story of Stick Man
What starts as a simple morning jog for Stick Man becomes an incredible adventure filled with mishaps and misunderstandings! Stick Man just wants to return to the family tree where he lives with his Stick Lady Love and their stick children three. But that's easier said than done when everyone seems to think he's just a stick!
The Journey Begins
Stick Man's troubles start when a playful dog mistakes him for a fetch stick. From there, his misadventures multiply: he's used by a swan to build her nest, becomes a mast for a sandcastle, serves as a snowman's arm, and nearly ends up on a bonfire! Each mishap takes him further from home, but Stick Man never gives up hope of getting back to his family.
Christmas Magic
As Christmas approaches and Stick Man finds himself far from the family tree, things look desperate. But help arrives from an unexpected source - someone else who knows about chimneys and Christmas magic! Will Stick Man make it home in time to be reunited with his Stick Lady Love and their children for the festive season?
Themes of Home and Family
At its heart, Stick Man is a story about determination, love, and the importance of family. Despite all his setbacks, Stick Man never stops trying to get home. The story celebrates perseverance, the warmth of family bonds, and the magic of Christmas - themes that resonate with both children and adults.
About This Production
Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler
Julia Donaldson is one of the world's best-loved children's authors, with over 75 million books sold worldwide. Her distinctive rhyming stories have become modern classics, particularly those illustrated by Axel Scheffler including The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom, and Zog. Stick Man was first published in 2008 and quickly became a beloved addition to the Donaldson-Scheffler collection, later adapted into an animated film by Magic Light Pictures.
Freckle Productions
This production comes from Freckle Productions, the award-winning theatre company behind stage adaptations of Zog, Zog and the Flying Doctors, Tiddler and other Terrific Tales, and Tabby McTat. They specialize in bringing Julia Donaldson's stories to life with theatrical flair, creating productions that remain faithful to the books while adding layers of theatrical magic through puppetry, music, and imaginative staging.
The Creative Team
Directed by Mark Kane with original direction by Sally Cookson (acclaimed for A Monster Calls at the Old Vic), the production features design by Katie Sykes, lighting by Eleanor Higgins, music by Benji Bower, and musical direction by Brian Hargreaves. This experienced team brings expertise in creating theatre that truly connects with young audiences while maintaining artistic excellence.
A Perennial Christmas Favourite
Stick Man has become a beloved Christmas tradition for families across the UK, returning each festive season with its message of hope, determination, and family love. The production's combination of physical theatre, puppetry, and live music creates an immersive theatrical experience that introduces children to the magic of live performance in a welcoming, engaging environment.
Practical Information
Show Times
- Tuesday - Sunday: 10:30am, 1:00pm, and select 3:30pm performances
- Monday: No performances
- Duration: 60 minutes with no interval
Special Performances
- Relaxed Performance: Saturday 13 December at 10:30am (welcoming environment for sensory sensitivities)
- BSL Performance: Sunday 8 December at 1:00pm
- Audio Described Performance: Sunday 15 December at 1:00pm
Getting There
- Train/Underground: Euston Station (5 mins walk) - Northern, Victoria, Circle, Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City lines
- Buses: 10, 18, 24, 29, 73, 91, 168, 253
- Parking: Limited street parking - public transport recommended
Theatre Information
- Part of University College London
- Capacity: 540 seats
- Wheelchair accessible
- Booster cushions available for children
- Welcoming family-friendly environment
Running Dates
Stick Man runs at the Bloomsbury Theatre from 4 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, making it perfect Christmas holiday entertainment for the whole family.
Age Guidance & Pricing
Recommended for ages 3+ - perfect for pre-schoolers and primary school children. Children under 2 are free if seated on a guardian's lap. Child tickets (ages 2-17) and adult tickets available. Group discounts available: 1 free ticket with every 10 paid. School groups receive special rates - contact the theatre for details.
