Roald Dahl's Little Red Riding Hood, is an exciting addition to A&C Black's Roald Dahl series of musicals for schools. It joins the famously infamous Snow-White and the Seven Dwarfs and the very smelly but loveable Jack and the Beanstalk in a glittering line up of wickedly funny productions which children and audiences just love. The plot twists something like this: Mr Wolf thinks he's a match for Little Red Riding Hood and her three little piggie pals. He snatches a lead on her and gobbles up Grandma - but his hair raising antics will cost him his skin. And it's sweet Little Red Riding Hood herself who has the ace up her sleeve - or, to be frank - the pistol in her knickers. Schools can now buy a performance licence online at the brand new A&C Black musicals website (live from March 05), which also has a forum, a Hall of Fame, and regular updates and free extras to download. Another winner!
Roald Dahl was a beloved British author, poet, screenwriter, and wartime fighter pilot, best known for his enchanting and often darkly humorous children's books that have captivated generations of readers around the world. Born in Llandaff, Wales, to Norwegian parents, Dahl led a life marked by adventure, tragedy, creativity, and enduring literary success. His vivid imagination and distinctive storytelling style have made him one of the most celebrated children's authors in modern literature. Before becoming a writer, Dahl lived a life filled with excitement and hardship. He served as a Royal Air Force pilot during World War II, surviving a near-fatal crash in the Libyan desert. His wartime experiences and travels deeply influenced his storytelling, often infusing his works with a sense of danger, resilience, and the triumph of the underdog. After the war, he began writing for both adults and children, showing a rare versatility that spanned genres and age groups. Dahl's children's books are known for their playful use of language, unforgettable characters, and a deep sense of justice, often pitting clever children against cruel or foolish adults. Some of his most iconic titles include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG, James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr Fox, and The Witches. These works are filled with fantastical elements and moral undertones, empowering young readers to challenge authority, think independently, and believe in the impossible. Equally acclaimed for his work for adults, Dahl wrote numerous short stories characterized by their macabre twists and dark humor. His stories were frequently published in magazines such as The New Yorker and later compiled into bestselling collections like Someone Like You and Kiss Kiss. He also wrote screenplays, including the James Bond film You Only Live Twice and the adaptation of Ian Fleming's Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Despite his literary success, Dahl was a complex and sometimes controversial figure, known for his strong opinions and difficult personality. Nonetheless, his books continue to be treasured for their wit, originality, and the sense of wonder they inspire. Many of his stories have been adapted into successful films, stage plays, and television specials, further cementing his legacy. Dahl's impact on children's literature is immeasurable. His ability to connect with young readers through a mix of irreverence, heart, and imagination has made his stories timeless. Even after his death, his books remain in print and continue to be read by millions of children worldwide. His writing not only entertains but also encourages curiosity, courage, and compassion. Roald Dahl's work lives on as a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of a truly original voice. He remains a towering figure in literature whose creations continue to spark joy, mischief, and inspiration across generations.
This is my favorite part in this adaptation/version of this story because Little Red Riding Hood turns out to be a quick thinker and realize that the situation requires some self-defense. This is very empowering to little girls and boys reading this, knowing that they can defend themselves and stand up to the wolves in their lives.
xo, Rach
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.