A MONSTER CALLS

An emotional journey of grief, loss, and healing awaits

Based on the novel by Patrick Ness and inspired by the original idea by Siobhan Dowd, devised by Sally Cookson and Adam Peck and the company

Directed by Caroline McCluskey

Prepare to embark on an emotional journey like no other in our stage production of “A Monster Calls.”

Based on the heart-wrenching novel by Patrick Ness, this powerful story follows young Conor O’Malley as he navigates the complexities of grief, loss, and the unexpected arrival of a compelling monster.

With captivating performances and a narrative that touches the soul, this production invites you to confront life’s most challenging moments and discover the healing power of storytelling and imagination.

Don’t miss this extraordinary theatrical experience that will leave you profoundly moved and inspired.

A Monster Calls explores the themes of bereavement and isolation. In keeping with the book, the stage adaptation has several fantastical elements. There are scenes of moderate threat and also some potentially disturbing dream sequences. Some scenes may cause emotional distress. There are also scenes of bullying in a contemporary school setting.

Though the violence in these scenes is relatively mild, a young audience is likely to identify and sympathise with Conor. This show may prompt discussion at home with a young person’s responsible adult about some challenging themes.

As such, this production is recommended for age 12 years and over.

There will be flashing lights and some strobe lighting during this performance.

Thank you to Clinton Primary School for the loan of the school chairs.

PERFORMANCE DATES & TIMES

Ticket availability may include wheelchair spaces. To book a wheelchair space or to enquire about waitlist/returns etc. please contact Box Office on 01926 856548 (or via our Contact Us page)

Tickets are available via the online booking system with concessions available for full time students, those in receipt of a pension, Talisman members and group bookings (for parties of 10 or more).

Click for Seating Plan

Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre
Barrow Road, Kenilworth CV8 1FN

CAST & CREW

Cast (in order of appearance)

Mum: Emma Ritson

Conor: Oliver Mason

Harry/Ensemble: Jack Ives

Sully/Ensemble: Alais McCluskey

Antonia/Ensemble: Heather Doy

Lily/Ensemble: Amy Jolliffe

Mrs Godfrey/Ensemble: Linda Smith-Blain

Miss Marl/Ensemble: Jessica Whitehill

The Monster: Ben Ionoff

Grandma/Ensemble: Jill Laurie

Dad/Ensemble: Mike McCluskey

Ensemble: Lily Butler, Natasha Hall, Georgina McKernan, Laurie Weston

Crew / Creative Support

Director: Caroline McCluskey

Production Manager: Wendy Elliott

Set Design: Steve Sanday

Lighting: Nigel Elliott

Sound: Richard Crump

Props: Corrina Jacob & Team

Wardrobe: Sam Harris & Team

Movement/Choreography: Amanda Wright

Set Build: Talisman Set Build Team

Publicity: Sharon Sully & Team

DIRECTOR'S NOTES

‘Stories are wild creatures’, the monster said. ‘When you let them loose, who knows what havoc they might wreak?’

Conor and his mum have always managed just fine since his dad left, but now everything is changing. His mum is seriously ill, his grandmother won’t stop interfering and the children at school won’t look him in the eye. But one night a monster calls. A monster with ancient stories to share and through these visits, Conor confronts his deepest fears and discovers unexpected truths about love, loss and healing.

This story speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of storytelling in healing. This wonderful play sees Patrick Ness’s novel vividly brought to life, bringing together physical theatre, movement, storytelling, music, and effects. I am so excited to have such a wonderful cast, all of whom have embraced my ideas from the very start of the rehearsal process. Uniting our graduating youth members with an adult cast, this really is an ensemble piece. The audience will travel with Conor on his journey and this play promises to bring something unique to the Talisman stage.

Caroline McCluskey