The windows shone. A green creeper climbed almost to the roof. It looked like an old-time castle.
My school! thought Darrell, and a little warm feeling came into her heart. How lucky I am to be going to Malory Towers
Nostalgic, naughty and perfect for now, Malory Towers is the original ‘Girl Power’ story. Join Wise Children for high jinks, high drama and high spirits, all set to sensational live music and breathtaking animation.
Darrell Rivers is starting school with an eager mind and fierce heart. Unfortunately she also has a quick temper! Can she learn to tolerate the infuriating Gwendoline Lacey, or value the kind hearted Sally Hope? Can she save the school play and rescue terrified Mary Lou from the grip of a raging storm? If she can do these things anywhere, she will do them at Malory Towers!
Adapted and directed by Emma Rice (Wise Children, Romantics Anonymous, Tristan & Yseult, The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk and Brief Encounter), this is a show for girls, boys and all us grown-up children who still dream of midnight feasts and Cornish clifftops.
“The much-loved story of Malory Towers is brought to glorious life with this fantastic and diverse cast… A dazzlingly talented cast brings each of the characters to life with several standout performances.” – Lancashire Telegraph
“Emma Rice’s adaptation is a love letter to the generation of women… A zany, funny and delightfully dotty production… It’s most welcome.” – I Love Manchester
★★★★★ “Funny, fierce, feisty and feminist – this is a beautiful production which thoroughly deserves its sell-out status… If you can get a ticket, do.” – Theatre Reviews North
“As expected from [Emma] Rice, this is a visually spectacular production but one that focusses on the story and the performances of a diverse and multi-talented cast… Another wonderfully entertaining production from Wise Children… It certainly isn’t just for teenage girls.” – British Theatre Guide
“[It’s] all done with passion and huge heart… Another entrancing triumph for [Emma] Rice, who is firing on all cylinders now she has full autonomy to make all her own decisions. Girl Power indeed.” – Reviewer Number 9
“Emma Rice skilfully delivers a spirited adaptation of Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers that is toe-tappingly infectious to all… a high-spirited musical of mischief and music… a nostalgic adventure for adults and a powerful message for the older children on being yourself.” – Mancunian Matters
“Packed full of humour, adventure, terrific songs and inspired animation… Nostalgic, naughty and perfect for now, Malory Towers is the original ‘Girl Power’ story.” – Raring2Go
★★★★ “The whole artistic team are in a class of their own… An energetic, contemporary musical production.” – Quays Life
★★★★★ “Emotional and evocative… Stuffed full of invention and enchantment… It is magic.” – The Guardian
★★★★ “Revels in the power and potential of young women – and that makes you want to cheer.” – The Times (behind paywall)
★★★★ “Although there is lots to be enjoyed by the adults, Malory Towers is a play that speaks very directly to young people… “[Emma Rice] and her team combine mischief, humour, music and a message everyone can take home to make Enid Blyton’s classic children’s novels come vividly to life on stage.” – What’s On Stage
“Warm-hearted and fun… The cast does a cracking job, singing, dancing and supplying musical accompaniment.” – The Stage
“[Emma] Rice’s love letter to Enid Blyton’s wholesome world and post-war hope will be a pure family delight.” – British Theatre Guide
“The cast too are notably strong singers and bring great vibrancy to the songs… There is a great sense of fun to be found here.” – Broadway World
★★★★★ “A jolly trip down memory lane that packs an emotional punch.” – Bristol Post