Is Your Favorite Toto Adventure Book Coming to Life as a Stage Play?

Dermot O'Leary, the beloved TV and radio presenter, has expressed his excitement over the adaptation of his children's book series, Toto the Ninja Cat, into a stage musical. The first book, Toto The Ninja Cat And The Great Snake Escape, will tour across England next year, bringing to life the adventures of a blind cat who uses her ninja skills to save the day.

Last updated: 03 October 2023 (BST)

Overview of Toto the Ninja Cat

First published in 2017, the Toto the Ninja Cat series has captured the hearts of children and parents alike. Based on O'Leary's real-life pet, a blind cat he adopted in Italy, the stories explore themes of bravery, adventure, and the importance of companionship. The protagonist, Toto, navigates her world using her heightened senses and agility, teaching young readers that disabilities do not define one's capabilities.

• The stage adaptation will premiere at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester.
• The musical is set to tour various cities across England, including London and Birmingham.
• The show will feature original music and puppetry, making it a unique theatrical experience.
• O'Leary's personal connection to the character adds depth to the story's narrative.
• The production is directed by Samantha Lane, with music by Barb Jungr.

The Journey from Page to Stage

The transition from book to stage is no small feat. O'Leary's enthusiasm for theatre is evident, as he recalls his childhood visits to the Mercury Theatre. "I grew up going to the Mercury Theatre, to see panto and plays," he said. This personal connection fuels his excitement for the adaptation, as it embodies both nostalgia and creativity.

Creative Team Behind the Production

The adaptation has been entrusted to Samantha Lane, the artistic director of Little Angel Theatre, renowned for its innovative puppetry and engaging storytelling. Musician Barb Jungr, known for her evocative compositions, will infuse the production with original songs that are likely to resonate with both children and adults.

Illustrator Nick East, who has collaborated with O'Leary on the book series, has also expressed his delight at the adaptation. "Working with Dermot on the Toto The Ninja Cat series has been an utter delight," he stated. His involvement ensures that the visual elements of the story remain vibrant and engaging as they transition to the stage.

Storyline and Themes

The first story, Toto The Ninja Cat And The Great Snake Escape, revolves around a thrilling adventure where Toto must confront a deadly king cobra that has escaped from London Zoo. Despite her blindness, Toto's ninja skills and resourcefulness allow her to rise to the challenge. This narrative not only entertains but also imparts vital lessons about courage, resilience, and the ability to overcome obstacles.

Tour Details and Future Performances

The stage production is scheduled to commence on 2 April 2024, running until 18 April at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester. Following this, it will embark on a tour that includes performances in:

• London's Little Angel Theatre
• Southampton
• Bristol
• Birmingham
• Weymouth
• Guildford

This widespread tour aims to introduce Toto's adventures to a broader audience, allowing children from various backgrounds to experience the magic of theatre.

Why This Adaptation Matters

The adaptation of Toto the Ninja Cat to a stage musical highlights the growing trend of transforming children's literature into theatrical productions. Such adaptations serve as a bridge between reading and live performance, encouraging children to engage with stories in new and exciting ways. They also foster a love for the arts, which is crucial for children's development.

Furthermore, the inclusion of puppetry in this adaptation adds a unique dimension to storytelling. Puppetry can captivate young audiences, making complex themes accessible and entertaining. The combination of live performance, music, and visual storytelling promises to create a memorable experience for families.

The Importance of Representation

Dermot O'Leary’s decision to centre a blind character in his stories sheds light on the importance of representation in children's literature. By showcasing a protagonist with a disability who is both capable and heroic, O'Leary provides young readers with relatable role models. This representation can help challenge stereotypes and encourage empathy among children, fostering a more inclusive society.

Looking Ahead

As anticipation builds for the premiere of Toto the Ninja Cat as a stage musical, it is clear that O'Leary's passion for storytelling and theatre is set to inspire a new generation. The adaptation not only brings the beloved character of Toto to life but also highlights the significance of creativity in children's education and personal development.

With the success of the book series already established, the stage adaptation has the potential to expand the Toto franchise further, opening doors for merchandise, spin-offs, and even more theatrical productions. O'Leary’s enthusiasm suggests that this is just the beginning for Toto and her adventures.

Conclusion

Dermot O'Leary's journey from author to stage producer illustrates the dynamic relationship between literature and performing arts. As Toto the Ninja Cat prepares to leap onto the stage, audiences can expect a delightful mix of adventure, humour, and heart. This production promises to be a significant event in the UK theatre calendar, and one that should not be missed by families looking for wholesome entertainment.

Will you join Toto on her exciting adventures as she proves that being different is not just okay but extraordinary? #TotoTheNinjaCat #ChildrenTheatre #DermotOLeary

FAQs

What is Toto the Ninja Cat about?

Toto the Ninja Cat is a children's book series about a blind cat named Toto who uses her ninja skills to embark on exciting adventures, teaching young readers about courage and resilience.

When will the stage adaptation premiere?

The stage adaptation of Toto the Ninja Cat will premiere at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester from 2 April to 18 April 2024.

Who is involved in the production?

The production is adapted by Samantha Lane of Little Angel Theatre, with original music composed by Barb Jungr. Dermot O'Leary, who created the series, is also involved in the project.

Where will the show tour?

The musical will tour various locations in England, including London's Little Angel Theatre, Southampton, Bristol, Birmingham, Weymouth, and Guildford.

What themes does the story explore?

The story explores themes of bravery, adventure, and the importance of friendship, while also highlighting the significance of representation for children with disabilities.