In the heart of Scotland’s cultural capital, Baddies Edinburgh has emerged as one of the most delightful and imaginative theatre productions of recent years. Adapted from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture book, the show brings together an unforgettable blend of humour, music, and moral lessons. Staged at the iconic Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh, this performance captures the attention of children and adults alike through its clever storytelling, vibrant characters, and dazzling stagecraft.
The Story Behind Baddies Edinburgh
The story revolves around three iconic villains—a witch, a troll, and a ghost—who pride themselves on being the worst baddies in the world. Their mission is to frighten everyone they meet, but their plans take an unexpected twist when they encounter a brave young girl who refuses to be scared. Through humour, song, and heartwarming moments, Baddies Edinburgh turns the traditional idea of villains on its head, revealing that kindness, courage, and empathy are the real strengths.
The story’s moral undertone resonates beautifully with young audiences, teaching them that appearances can be deceiving, and even those deemed “bad” may have good within them. It’s this combination of laughter and life lessons that gives Baddies Edinburgh its universal charm.
Creative Team and Direction
The stage adaptation is the creative product of writer David Greig and co-director Jackie Crichton. Their collaboration ensures that the essence of Julia Donaldson’s original tale is retained while bringing a dynamic theatrical experience to the stage. The direction, led by Katie Beard, strikes the perfect balance between whimsy and emotion, keeping children entertained while offering parents subtle reflections on morality and identity.
Music and lyrics are crafted by Joe Stilgoe, whose lively compositions add rhythm and sparkle to the show. The songs are catchy and easy to remember, ensuring that children leave the theatre humming long after the curtain falls.
The Setting and Stage Design
One of the strongest features of Baddies Edinburgh lies in its stage design. The Royal Lyceum Theatre’s creative team has transformed the space into a world of wonder, filled with bold colours, quirky props, and intricate lighting effects. The costumes are equally enchanting, designed to highlight each character’s personality—the Witch with her tattered yet glittering gown, the Troll with his earthy tones, and the Ghost draped in shimmering translucence. Every design choice enhances the story’s playful yet mysterious tone.
Children in the audience are especially drawn to the tactile textures and shifting backdrops that create a living storybook atmosphere. The visual richness immerses the audience completely, making the show not just a performance but a vivid sensory experience.
Performance and Acting Excellence
The acting in Baddies Edinburgh deserves special mention. The cast’s energy and enthusiasm keep the young viewers enthralled. Dyfrig Morris as the Troll, Rachel Bird as the Witch, and James Stirling as the Ghost bring their roles to life with comedic timing and emotional warmth. Their chemistry on stage reflects both chaos and camaraderie, turning the trio of villains into a lovable team.
The child character, portrayed by a talented young performer, provides the emotional centre of the story. Her fearlessness in the face of the “baddies” delivers both humour and inspiration, reminding the audience that bravery often comes in small packages.
The Audience Experience
Watching Baddies Edinburgh feels like stepping into a modern fairy tale. The show’s one-hour format without an interval is ideal for children, ensuring the story maintains its momentum and engagement. From start to finish, the theatre bursts with laughter, gasps, and applause. The interactive elements—such as character dialogues and audience participation—make the experience even more memorable for young theatre-goers.
Parents appreciate the show for its wholesome content and meaningful message. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a gentle lesson in empathy and courage delivered through song, laughter, and magic.
Themes and Messages
At its core, Baddies Edinburgh explores transformation and redemption. The Witch, the Troll, and the Ghost begin as proud villains but gradually reveal their softer sides as they interact with the young heroine. The play encourages children to look beyond stereotypes and understand that people—and creatures—are often more complex than they seem.
Another recurring theme is bravery. The little girl’s unshakable confidence teaches audiences that fear can be conquered with kindness and self-belief. These lessons are woven naturally into the narrative, never feeling forced or overly moralistic.
Critical Reception
The show has received a mixture of praise and constructive critique from theatre reviewers. The Reviews Hub hailed it as “a delight from start to finish,” highlighting its engaging energy and imaginative direction. Critics have admired the way it keeps children entertained while offering adults nostalgic reminders of childhood storytelling.
However, some reviewers noted that the pacing could occasionally slow down in parts, suggesting that a slightly brisker tempo would enhance the overall rhythm. Despite that, Baddies Edinburgh stands as a solid family production—visually captivating, musically joyful, and emotionally sincere.
The Cultural Significance of Baddies Edinburgh
In Edinburgh’s vibrant arts scene, Baddies Edinburgh occupies an important place as a family-friendly theatre experience. The Royal Lyceum Theatre has long been known for promoting literary adaptations and educational performances, and Baddies continues that tradition beautifully. By adapting a beloved children’s book, the production helps cultivate a new generation of theatre lovers who associate the stage with fun, imagination, and creativity.
The show also reflects Edinburgh’s growing focus on inclusive, accessible culture. Its themes of understanding and acceptance align perfectly with modern values, making it relevant beyond mere entertainment.
Behind the Scenes Magic
The backstage effort that brings Baddies Edinburgh to life is equally impressive. From costume designers to lighting technicians, every team member contributes to creating a seamless and enchanting performance. The lighting transitions between eerie blues and warm yellows enhance the contrast between the “baddies’” world and the young girl’s perspective. Sound effects—like the rustling of leaves, echoing laughter, and faint magical chimes—deepen the illusion of stepping into a fairytale realm.
Educational and Emotional Value
For educators and parents, Baddies Edinburgh serves as more than a fun day out. It’s a teaching moment disguised as entertainment. The story encourages discussions about right and wrong, empathy, and personal growth. Teachers often use such plays as springboards for creative writing, role-play, and art projects in classrooms, helping children explore their emotions and develop empathy.
Emotionally, the show helps children understand fear and courage in a safe, light-hearted context. It reassures them that even “baddies” have feelings and that everyone can change with a little understanding and friendship.
Future Tours and Legacy
Following its successful run in Edinburgh, Baddies is expected to tour across the UK. With strong audience demand and positive word of mouth, it may become a regular fixture in family theatre schedules. If it continues to tour, it will not only spread laughter but also nurture a culture of theatre appreciation among young audiences nationwide.
The production’s potential legacy is its ability to bring families together—bridging generations through laughter, nostalgia, and storytelling. It reminds adults of the tales they loved as children and introduces new audiences to the timeless magic of live theatre.
Why It Stands Out
Baddies Edinburgh distinguishes itself from many children’s plays by offering multi-layered storytelling. It balances mischief with morality, slapstick with sincerity. The witty dialogues, catchy tunes, and heartfelt messages create a theatre experience that lingers long after the final bow. Its visual creativity and emotional authenticity make it one of the standout family shows of the season.
Tips for Visitors
Those planning to attend Baddies Edinburgh at the Royal Lyceum Theatre or its future venues should book tickets early, especially for weekend performances. Families are encouraged to arrive a little early to explore the theatre and settle in comfortably. For younger children, it’s advisable to explain the story beforehand to build anticipation and understanding. Bringing snacks or water for after the show is also recommended, as the performance is continuous without an interval.
Conclusion
Baddies Edinburgh is more than a play—it’s an experience that combines fun, learning, and imagination in perfect harmony. With its talented cast, beautiful design, and uplifting story, it stands as one of the most memorable stage adaptations of the year. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or simply a lover of live theatre, this production offers something to treasure. It celebrates courage, friendship, and the joy of seeing familiar stories brought vividly to life, proving once again that the magic of theatre never fades.
