Unexpected Twist is a re-telling of the Charles Dickens classic, Oliver Twist, by one of the best-loved figures in the children’s book world, Michael Rosen.

Combining two stories in one; Rosen’s new tale alongside the Dickens classic that inspired it, Artistic Director James Dacre (Olivier Award-nominated Our Lady Of Kibeho) and designer Frankie Bradshaw’s (Two Trains Running) production brings to vivid life the worlds of both Shona and Oliver as their stories twist together, unexpectedly!

Adapted for the stage by BAFTA award-winning playwright Roy Williams (Soul, Sucker Punch) with original music by rising R&B star Yaya Bey and BAC Beatbox Academy’s Conrad Murray, Unexpected Twist is a thrilling new production from the producing partnership behind Holes and The Jungle Book that will tour the UK following its Northampton premiere. 

Unexpected Twist has choreography by Olivier Award-winning Arielle Smith (Jolly Folly), musical direction by Conrad Murray, lighting design by Rory Beaton (Death Drop), sound design by Leigh Davies (Matilda) with casting by Annelie Powell CDG.  The creative team also includes Sarah Stacey (Associate Director), Gurkiran Kaur (Voice Coach) and Kate Waters (Fight Director).

“I have always been a huge lover of theatre and the dramatic arts. I believe in the power and value of live performance and rate it as an equal to all the other literary activities. I can’t describe what a thrill it is for me to know Unexpected Twist is going to be a play. I can ‘see’ it as being a funny, tough, edgy, contemporary, powerful show. I am desperate to see it.“ Michael Rosen

ROYAL & DERNGATE, NORTHAMPTON AND THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE PARTNERSHIP

Recommended for ages 8+