Created by Roustabout Theatre, based on the book by David McKee. 

‘There’s a monster in the garden and it’s going to eat me.’ 

Bernard’s got a problem. There’s a monster in the garden… but his mum and dad are too busy to notice. So Bernard does what any sensible child would do — he tries to befriend it. That doesn’t quite go to plan. 

A wildly funny, physical theatre adaptation of David McKee’s much-loved picture book, bursting with chaos, live music made from instruments and household objects, and an ENORMOUS purple monster. 

This is a story about being heard, getting noticed, and what happens when grown-ups are just too busy — told with comedy, imagination, and plenty of mischief. 

With integrated Makaton, this accessible production is suitable for everyone aged 3+. 

Supported by Arts Council England, the egg, and Front Room Theatre. 

Not Now Bernard © David McKee 1980, published by Andersen Press Ltd 

CAST
Performers – Kim Heron, Fionn Gill and Shaelee Rooke
Musician – Robin Hemmings

CREATIVE TEAM
Writer and Director – Toby Hulse
Designer – Laura McEwan
Composer – Robin Hemmings
Lighting Designer – Will Monks
Makaton Translator – Becca Hulbert
Mime & Clown Consultant – Les Bubb
Associate Lighting Designer – Joe Price
Stage Manager – Hannah Lipton
Production Manager – Gemma Brooks
Producers – Alice Massey and Shaelee Rooke
Marketing Consultant – Alice Sewell

Produced by Roustabout Theatre
Supported by Arts Council England, the egg, Bath Theatre Royal and Front Room Theatre.

Suitable for ages 3+

Duration: 60 minutes (no interval)

The show will feature integrated Makaton signing to improve accessibility for audiences with learning disabilities, autism, Down syndrome, or other communication difficulties. By combining speech with signs and symbols, we will enhance understanding and participation, opening the performance to groups often excluded from traditional theatre. 

photo credit: Craig Fuller

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