Dodie Smith's beloved 1956 novel The Hundred and One Dalmatians tells the story of the Dearly family, who live in a house in the Outer Circle of Regent's Park with their beloved Dalmatians. But when a visit from the villainous Cruella de Vil coincides with the arrival of a new litter of puppies, the family's happiness is at risk. Obsessed with the idea of a black and white spotted fur coat, Cruella kidnaps the puppies. While the humans flounder and fail to find the missing puppies, it's up to all the dogs to join together and save the day.
The story has delighted on the page and in two hit Disney film adaptions. Now it will come to life on stage in an all-singing, all-dancing, all-barking new musical directed by Timothy Sheader, head of the Open Air Theatre. Zinnie Harris (How to Hold Your Breath) adapts the story for the stage and Douglas Hodge is writing original music and lyrics.
The canine characters will scamper across the stage thanks to puppetry designed and directed by Toby Olié, who brought the Sumatran jungle to the Open Air Theatre in 2016's Running Wild. Tony and Olivier award-nominee Kate Fleetwood, who has impressed in Lady Macbeth, Medea and King Lear, brings her flair for the villain to the role of Cruella de Vil.
The outdoor stage promises an atmospheric and accurate setting for Dodie Smith's story, which takes place in and around Regent's Park. With adventure, music and innumerable cute puppies, 101 Dalmatians is set to be a treat for all the family. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Tickets for 101 Dalmatians at the Open Air Theatre are now on sale. Click here to book.
| What | 101 Dalmatians, Regent's Park Open Air Theatre |
| Where | Open Air Theatre, Regent's Park, Inner Cir, Westminster, London, NW1 4NU | MAP |
| Nearest tube | Baker Street (underground) |
| When |
15 May 21 – 20 Jun 21, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Price | £25+ |
| Website | Click here for more information and tickets |
