Mike Kenny's adaptation of the Carlo Collodi story at Hull Truck Theatre will feature a cast of eight for "this heart-warming and fantastical tale about coming of age, loyalty, hardship, redemption and unconditional love."
Eliza Blair, who recently relocated to the UK from Los Angeles, will star as Pinocchio. Deb Pugh, a freelance theatre maker and movement director, will appear as Pinocchio’s trusty sidekick and conscience, Cricket. Fatima Niemogha, a Deaf actor from London, is making her Hull Truck Theatre debut as the Blue Spirit. James Clyde plays hard-up, lonely carpenter Gepetto.
Cat will be played by Joanna Holden, who was Mrs Snowball in Hull Truck Theatre’s production of 71 Coltman Street. Fox is played by Michael Hugo, who was in Hull Truck Theatre’s production of The Lady Killers. Niall Ransome is from Hull and will play the mischievous young Lampwick. Finally, Patrick Dineen is MC and Stromboli.
Pinocchio will be directed by Hull Truck Theatre’s Artistic Director, Mark Babych, and feature a new score by composer and co-lyricist John Biddle. Mike Kenny has adapted the story, working with John Biddle on the original songs.
Pinocchio will run from 24 November to 31 December 2023. Audience members who can show a valid rail ticket for their journey to the theatre can purchase an ice cream for £1, courtesy of sponsors Hull Trains.