David Walliams is one of the biggest-selling children’s authors in the world (having shifted some 25 million copies in more than 50 languages). And he’s now become the first children’s novelist since Roald Dahl to have their book turned into a full-scale RSC musical extravaganza.
As fun as these big musicals might be, they aren’t something the RSC takes lightly. Not only has the head honcho, Gregory Doran, decided to direct The Boy in the Dress himself, he’s also hired some serious talent. Robbie Williams — probably not seen in Stratford-upon-Avon since Take That were an up-and-coming boy band — has co-written the songs. Mark Ravenhill, the 1990s playwright best known for his tales of jaded shaggers, adapts the text. That’s quite the team.
Has it paid off? You bet. The Boy in the Dress is an absolute belter. Smart, catchy, funny and beautifully imagined. Much of that is down to Doran himself.
Get Britain's best politics newsletters
Register to get The Spectator's insight and opinion straight to your inbox. You can then read two free articles each week.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in