Emma Rice's musical adaptation of Enid Blyton's classic boarding school books, Malory Towers, has opened at Alexandra Palace as part of a UK tour, earning a four-star review. The production, first staged in 2019, features a cast of actor-musicians who bring life to Rice's simple script, creating a charming and lively show that appeals to both children and adults.
A Fresh Take on a Classic
The show opens with a modern framing device: a group of schoolgirls in contemporary dress sprint onto a stage transformed by neon lights and pop music. When Mary-Lou Atkinson (Emily Panes) hits her head, she dreams she has traveled back in time to Blyton's Malory Towers. The set, designed by Lez Brotherton, uses projection and lighting to create a white textured canvas that evokes a school environment. A calendar on the backdrop turns back year by year, signaling the transition to the past.
The characters initially appear as archetypes: Alicia Johns (Molly Cheesley) is the joker, Darrel Rivers (Robyn Sinclair) the brave one, Mary-Lou the shy one, Gwendoline Lacey (Anna Soden) the stuck-up one, and Irene Dupont (Stephanie Hockley) the French one with exaggerated 'ooh-la-la's and 'sacré bleu!'s. However, as the story progresses at Malory Towers, these edges blur, revealing nuanced young women with depth reflective of teenage years.
Talented Cast and Music
The cast, all accomplished musicians, play instruments and sing a mix of original numbers and musical standards. Stephanie Hockley also serves as the on-stage musical director, making both roles seem effortless. The production incorporates puppetry and playful use of perspective, though the projection work is simple and at times borders on uncanny. Compared to the National Theatre's Ballet Shoes, Rice's world is more basic in set design, but the ensemble's energy drives the show forward.
According to the review, the production is a 'near-perfect' outing for families. Children in the audience at Alexandra Palace were 'enraptured,' and overheard interval babble included excited comparisons among characters. The show runs for two hours, with ticket prices ranging from £35 to £50.
Performance Details
Malory Towers runs at Alexandra Palace from 24 July to 2 August 2026, with multiple performances daily. The venue is accessible via Wood Green tube station. The production is recommended for children and adults alike, offering a borrowed nostalgia for times gone by.
