[Ad- gifted experience] Amelia, Robin and I wanted to spend some quality time together (while the boys stayed home and gamed!) so we went to the New Wimbledon Theatre to see The 13-Storey Treehouse. We’ve not previously been to The New Wimbledon Theatre, which is located in Wimbledon, much like the Polka (one of our favorites). This theatre has a grand entrance, along with a bar outside the actual theatre. The theatre itself has a large central stage and then loads of floors, giving people the option of different views. We came to specifically see The 13-Storey Treehouse, and on this specific day, they were also handing out huge bags of free sweets (pick-n-mix style) to anyone who entered, advertising a nearby candy story, which was pretty fantastic.
Anyway, onto the play itself! The 13-Storey Treehouse is based on the book of the same title, which none of us have read previously, but that was totally fine. The stage itself looked pretty simple, almost like it was under construction, and the person doing the sound kept going out onto the stage and checking stuff. This felt strange, like things weren’t ready for us, and then when the power went off in the entire theatre about 5 minutes after it was meant to start, Robin got a touch worried. Turns out though, that’s all a part of the story.
You see, the two main characters with in this play have their dates mixed up and thought today was the dress rehearsal. They actually forgot to write their play or make any of the background items. They have, however, splent a lot of time writing a book, so when the stage manager says the show must go on, they start playing scenes from their book, asking the audience to use their imagination. There is also a device on the stage that turns pictures into 3D objects, which is used heavily.
Personally, the amount of times that the characters “broke character” in the play to beg the stage manager to be another actor or to argue amongst each other was a little much for me, but Robin and Amelia thought it was really funny! The 13-Storey Treehouse started really taking shape when the mermaid joined the stage, and towards the end there was some really fantastic scenery that surprised us all! There were a lot of funny moments and even a touching ending. After the show, Robin asked for the book, which is always fantastic to see! Amelia also really enjoyed herself, as she is at the top of the age range, which was good.
After the end of the performance, the actors stayed around for a 15 minute Q and A session, which was opened to everyone. This was a nice way to end the evening, as many people had fun questions around acting and becoming actors someday.
You can check out our other Days Out to see what else we’ve been up too!
The play sounds like something my niece would enjoy. It’s a fun storyline and one that would keep kids hooked.
This sounds like such a fun night out for any family. I think we’d love it.
That sounds like it was a fun play to go see with the family. We’ve not seen anything in a while so this could be something to take the kids to over the summer break. Free candy – the kids would be happy!
This looks like such a fun family show, I think this is something my kids would enjoy so I will have to look for something similar near us.
Ooh what a fun girls day out! Love seeing mama/daughter days. This is such a memorable experience and looks like a really fun show!
Aw firstly I am loving the fabulous family photos. Looked like you all had a great time watching the play and perfect for the kids xx
It is so great the kids enjoyed it and asked for the book afterwards. It certainly sounds very different to any play I have seen before!
Such a great review of ‘The 13-Storey Treehouse’ play! Loved the bit about the interactive Q&A session. Thanks for sharing your honest thoughts on it 🙂.
Looks like such an entertaining show, my nephew would love this. Thanks for sharing!
This seems like such an entertaining show. I love the outfits. The 13-storey Treehouse play looks great.
Looks like you and your children had a lot of fun at the 13-storey treehouse at the new Wimbledon theator. Thanks for introducing this awesome place to me!
My daughter loves these books and I really wanted to take her but I couldn’t make the dates work, Glad you all enjoyed it.
This looks like such a great family night out . Looks brilliant . My girls would love it