Kneehigh in association with Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Berkeley Repertory Theatre presents

946: The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips

Adapted by Michael Morpurgo and Emma Rice

Imagine being told to leave your home…
Imagine American soldiers occupying your house and land…
Imagine being 12 and angry, with only a cat to tell your secrets to…

Well it all happened (most of it anyway) in Slapton Sands, Devon, in 1944. Based on Michael Morpurgo’s The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips, 946 explodes everything we thought we knew about the D-Day landings. With signature Kneehigh sorcery, 946 uses music, puppetry and foolishness to tell this tale of war, prejudice and love. Tender, political and surprisingly romantic, this story speaks to us all and will finally reveal the secrets the US and British governments tried to keep quiet.

946 is co-adapted by Michael Morpurgo, one of the UK’s most loved and successful authors whose work includes War Horse, Kensuke’s Kingdom and Private Peaceful.

“Grab a child quick (10+) and pretend it’s their half term treat!” – Manchester Theatre Awards

“Poignant, respectful, yet forward thinking in approach, this piece encapsulates how to tell a story well. A must-see – truly beautiful.” – The Reviews Hub

“Emma Rice’s production is as spectacular, imaginative and prop-filled as you would expect from her – there’s so much ‘stuff’ in one of her productions it’s hard to imagine how there was ever time to put it all in and make the final performance as polished as this… One of those productions that immerses you into a world in which you feel at home and where you want to stay longer.” – British Theatre Guide

★★★★★ “A true ensemble piece… A fascinating, fast-paced journey… An evening of pure genius – don’t miss it!” – Canal Street

★★★★★ “A high-octane theatrical rollercoaster… Hilariously funny, heartbreakingly sad… Delivers a message of hope and humanity with extraordinary skill and subtlety.” – Morning Star

★★★★ “A winningly rumbustious family show… spilling over with song and dance and inventive cheek, that movingly affirms life in the face of the tragedy at its heart… the sheer verve of the ensemble should delight punters of all ages, from about 9 upwards.” – The Independent

★★★★ “If you liked War Horse, you’ll love the Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips. Tears are elicited at the finale. Mr Morpurgo is good at weepies and co-adaptor Miss Rice knows how to stage something flowery and fresh.” – Daily Mail

★★★★ “Emma Rice’s production is typically in your face – stuffed with music, songs, dance, puppetry and primitive effects… It is a restless, rollicking play that rarely pauses for breath. An entertaining family show that compromises neither its message nor its humanity.” – Daily Express

★★★★ “[Emma] Rice’s shows have a free-form vitality yet rigorous physical discipline that make them feel intensely alive… [A] delightful family show.” – The Stage

★★★★ “Brims with the imagination and invention that we’ve come to expect from Kneehigh, blending a carefree, homespun sort of charm with top-notch ensemble playing.” – Evening Standard

★★★★ “Full of boisterous collective energy.” – The Times (behind paywall)

“[The] production thrives on a swaggering awareness of its own possibility… Sprinkled with a strong dose of rough magic, it’s a terrific family show.” – Daily Telegraph

“There’s much to enjoy… The music and energy of the show glows.” – What’s On Stage

“Kneehigh’s inimitable style of boisterous play brings life to death in this adaptation… In the process, the production proves a tonic for our own troubled times.” – Variety

Part-history lesson, part-variety show… There’s enough silliness, jazz and heart-warming sap to jolly us through to a joyful ending that’s more than just tickety boo.” – Time Out

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Part of:

Get Creative Family Arts Festival

  • Running Time: 2hrs 25mins (inc 20min interval)
  • Recommended age 7+
  • This production features theatrical smoke and haze, flashing lights and loud sound effects.

Full price: £23 – £10 (concs available)

Children: £5

Schools & Groups Information

– Suitable for GCSE Drama, A Level Theatre Studies and equivalent levels. Kneehigh are a recommended practitioner on the AQA Theatre Studies (Unit 1 – DRAM1 & Unit 2 – DRAM2).
– £11 per ticket, 1 teacher place free with every 10 students
– Available weekdays only and must be booked in advance.
– For more information, please email groups@homemcr.org

– Student & Teachers resources available on Kneehigh’s Cookbook website