Holiday treat for youngsters

There’s a treat for the Merlin’s younger audience on Sunday 10th April at 3pm when London Contemporary Theatre presents their version of Clive King’s well-loved children’s novel, Stig of the Dump.

Barney is staying with his grandparents on the downs of southern England when he falls over the edge of an old chalk pit and tumbles through the roof of a hidden den. When he looks round he sees Stig, a caveman, with shaggy black hair and bright black eyes. The chalk pit is disused and full of  people’s dumped rubbish, which Stig uses to make his home.

Barney and Stig get on well together, even though they have no language in common. Stig becomes Barney’s secret friend, not because Barney doesn’t tell anyone, but because no-one believes that Stig is real. They have a great time, improving Stig’s den, collecting firewood, going hunting, and even catching some burglars who break into Barney’s grandparents’ house.

It is nearly 50 years since Stig and Barney’s adventures first saw the light of day, but this timeless children’s classic remains as charming and entertaining as ever.

Tickets: adults £8, concessions £5.50. Recommended 6+ Running time 120 mins.