The Ocean at the End of the Lane
Neil Gaiman's fantasy novel is brought to thrilling life.
The Times
Why see The Ocean at the End of the Lane?
Back for 2023
Described as a mesmerizing piece of theatrical magic, Katy Rudd and Joel Horwood's adaptation of Neil Gaiman's 2013 novel returns to the West End to cast its spell over the Noel Coward Theatre this autumn. A fantastical adventure that follows two young friends as they set out to defeat nefarious supernatural forces, it's Gaiman on fine form, brought to life by breathtaking effects, puppetry and more!
What is the story?
When our hero returns to his childhood home for a funeral, he is suddenly overcome by the vivid memories of a spring over 40 years before. At that time, he had a best friend, Lettie Hempstock, who claimed the duck pond behind her house was actually a vast ocean. Diving headlong into his past, our hero confronts the true nature of Lettie and her unusual family, and the epic battle they waged against unsettling magic they faced together so long ago.
Please note: This production contains scenes that some people may find distressing and strobe lighting.
Key Information
Audience
12+
Run Time
Two hours and 20 minutes including interval
Dates
Finished 14 May 2022
Creative
Based on the Novel by Neil Gaiman
Adapted by Joel Horwood
Directed by Katy Rudd
Design by Fly Davis
Costume and puppetry design by Samuel Wyver
Movement direction by Stephen Hoggett
Composition by Jherek Bischoff,
Lighting design by Paule Constable
Puppetry direction Finn Caldwell
Sound design by Ian Dickinson for Autograph
Magic and illusions direction and design by Jamie Harrison
Awards
Olivier Awards, 2020 - Nominations
Best Actress in a Supporting Role - Josie Walker
Best Lighting Design
Best New Play
Reviews
Our review
Singular, jaw-dropping, supernatural
A boy, his newfound friend, and a hefty dose of magic and horror. On the surface that may be all that the show seems to be, but Ocean at the End of the Lane has such unfathomable depths that it will leave even the most stout-hearted of us emotional.
Ania
Customer reviews
6 reviews, average rating: (3.5 Stars)
S Mark
Spectacular!
Not quite sure what to expect as we had last minute tickets but we were blown away by this incredible production. This is a visually spectacular show that cleverly and convincingly brings alive the stuff of childish imagination, and nightmares, following family trauma. With it's incredibly spectacular monsters and demons, this is a show to see if you like fantasy writing (a definite nod to Dark Materials). The young actors were particularly convincing and the story itself pretty simple but the standout for me was definitely the stage management and production which was outstanding. At times quite scary so great for slightly older kids perhaps rather than the very young! ... Read more
Misty Krueger
Amazing
This is one of the best stage productions I have ever seen. Absolutely loved the adaptation of the book. ... Read more
Natt
Brilliant - wonderful use of light and body
I booked tickets for my partner as I didn't expect it to be my thing but I really loved it.
Wonderful stage choreography, moving story telling, the actors were fantastic and the use of light, movement and puppetry was gripping.
I would go and see it again if I could. ... Read more
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