Children's classic takes to the stage

First published in 1963, Stig of the Dump is a children’s novel by Clive King about a young boy called Barney and his secret friend Stig.

It might be more than 50 years since the adventures saw the light of day but the classic remains as charming and entertaining as ever.

London Contemporary Theatre is bringing it to Alnwick Playhouse on Tuesday and Wednesday next week.

Barney is staying with his grandparents on the chalk Downs of southern England when he falls over the edge of an old chalk pit and tumbles throughthe roof of a hidden den.

When he looks round he sees Stig, a caveman, withshaggy black hair and bright black eyes. The chalk pit is disused and full ofpeople’s dumped rubbish, which Stig uses to make his home.

Barney and Stig get on rather well together and Stig becomes Barney’s secret friend, not because Barney doesn’t tell anyone, but because no one believes that Stig is real.

The performance includes a 20-minute interactive interval and is suitable for ages six and over.

The Tuesday performance is at 7.30pm while Thursday’s is at noon.

Tickets, £12 and £10 child, are available online at www.alnwickplayhouse.co.uk or from 01665 510785.