The touring production of Malory Towers showing at Richmond Theatre has been adapted by Emma Rice from the popular series of the same name by author Enid Blyton. Set in a picturesque boarding school in Cornwall. The series follows the adventures of Darrell Rivers and her friends as they navigate school life, friendships, and loyalty.

Costume designer Lez Brotherston’s has hit the mark with school uniform costumes that feel authentic.

The set, also designed by Brotherston, is simple, a large arched window through which Simon Baker’s video projections transport the audience from scene to scene.

Special mention should also go to Lyndie Wright and Alistair David for their work on the puppets and puppetry, which produced some of the biggest laughs of the show.

Composer Ian Ross’s ‘Thunder’ and ‘Fairy Queen’ renditions are impressive, however the vintage songs felt unnecessary and did little to move the story on.

This production thrives on its small and energetic cast, who also play their own instruments. Robyn Sinclair captures Darrell Rivers’ determination and impulsiveness, making her feel as though she has stepped straight from Blyton’s pages.

Although neither character is fully developed, Bethany Wooding’s sensible Sally Hope helps ground the group, while Zoe West’s horse-obsessed Bill Robinson and her horse, Thunder, deliver a Lassie-style rescue.

Anna Soden’s portrayal of Gwendoline Lacey is delightfully obnoxious, with very little to like about her, although in the manner of children’s literature redemption does come at the end.

Emily Panes stepped into the role of Mary‑Lou Atkinson last night in the absence of Eden Barrie and brings a sweet, sincere touch. She starts off timid and nervous but watching her confidence grow is one of the show’s.

Molly Cheesley is a delight as Alicia Johns, the resident joker with a never‑ending supply of terrible dad jokes.

The stand out performance though is Stephanie Hockley as Irene DuPont, whose musicianship is genuinely impressive. Her live playing blends beautifully into the action, and her solos especially are a real highlight.

Unfortunately, for a show that has so many brilliant elements it somehow lacks a spark. Having said that, it does not prevent this production from being an entertaining evening made special by a strong cast of musician-actors and some imaginative visual moments.

Reviewed by Nina Gardner.

Three and a half Stars.

Malory Towers is showing at Richmond Theatre 1st July 2026 – 4th July 2026

For tickets and more information see link below

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/malory-towers/richmond-theatre/calendar

Photo credit:Steve Tanner,

Cast

Robyn Sinclair as Darrell Rivers

Bethany Wooding as Sally Hope

Stephanie Hockley as Irene (also Musical Director)

Emily Panes as Mary-Lou Atkinson, Musician

Anna Soden as Gwendoline Lacey

Molly Cheesley as Alicia Johns

Zoe West as Bill Robinson

Eden Barrie

Voice of Miss Grayling: Dame Sheila Hancock

Creative Team

Adaptation and Direction: Emma Rice

Associate Director: Laura Keefe

Producer: Sian Weeding

Set and Costume Design: Lez Brotherston

Composer: Ian Ross

Sound and Video Design: Simon Baker

Choreographer: Alistair David

Puppets: Lydia Wright

Puppet Consultant: Sarah Wright