The Three Little Pigs | Unicorn Theatre

The Three Little Pigs is a musical based on the popular children's story of the same name, with original music by George Stiles and book and lyrics by Anthony Drewe. Directed by Jade Lewis, the 60 minute musical allows young children to immerse themselves in the familiar story, meeting the characters in real time and delighting in a fun theatrical experience, specifically designed for them. 

The musical starts with the three little pigs, Bar (Sam Mellows), Bee (Iona Crampton) and Q (Joe Thompson-Oubari) enjoying the fame that their story has brought them. As Mother Pig (Paula James) fondly comments on fame changing her children, she begins to recount the original tale. As the young piglets become adolescents, their mother suggests they each go out into the world and stand on their own four trotters. Bar, the eldest and a sportsman, leaps at the opportunity to ditch his siblings. Bee, the middle child and only girl, is eager to prove that she can create a house that is environmentally friendly. Q, the youngest with a deep love for books and learning, however, wishes they can continue living together. However, the three little pigs are soon hunted by the hungry Big Bad Wolf, who terrorises them before he's finally thwarted. 

The musical keeps the young audience engaged, with the performers often coming into the audience and directly interacting with them. The songs encourage the audience to clap along, with catchy tunes and simple lyrics that have the audience echoing the songs post-show. Aimed at young audiences, Lewis takes the opportunity to emphasise the importance of education throughout, with Q often addressing the audience directly as he speaks about the advantages of being clever. The musical is careful not to preach, but often introduces this naturally through conversation. 

The cast are energetic, embracing the silliness yet delivering sincere performances. James' vocals are wonderful, as is her warm nature as she fusses around her children. James is also funny as the three-time "convenient tradesperson". Mellows is delightful as the athlete who isn't quite all there. With strange comments and a frustration with his clever younger brother, Mellows takes on a tougher role, yet still manages to be charming throughout. His rouge assumptions of the world, along with his flexes (literal and otherwise), also make for funny moments. Crampton understands how to best interact and entertain young audiences, with a larger than life performance. Forever bubbly and oozing with theatrical flair, Crampton's good hearted Bee is a sweet addition, bringing newfound energy to every scene. Thompson-Oubari as Q is brilliant, with an adorable and geeky energy. The fixer of the family's problems, Thompson-Oubari's subtle performance ensures the character is always lovable, especially when he's willing to put himself in harm's way for his family. 

The musical's standout performer is Jack Wilkinson as the Big Bad Wolf, who admittedly, steals the show. Wilkinson leans into a pantomime villain, emerging in a dramatic and haze filled moment, wearing a cape and a love for crowd work. Wilkinson's big bad wolf is so magnetic that amusingly the young audience are quick to reveal the hidden three little pigs, wanting nothing more than to help. Wilkinson, in turn, manages to wonderfully incorporate quick improv to help the show get back on track (this occurs several times, for this particular crowd really did love the Wolf). Wilkinson's stylish choreography and vocals are highlights of the show. Wilkinson, who often roams the audience, hilariously pulled out an unexpected tape measure when spotting a baby in the front row, and teasingly takes jabs at the adults in the audience, making him unforgettable. 

Emma Bailey's sets feels like a children's book has been replicated on stage, with the original pigsty resembling a colourful playground. An admirable choice is the sun denoted by a fried egg (sunny side up of course), that is hoisted in a corner throughout. The detailing of Q's house, initially a simple room which expands to reveal a more intricate kitchen, is done well, as is the chimney slide. Ali Hunter's lighting keeps the pig's world feeling bright and warm, which is well contrasted by the darker approach with the Wolf. Yvonne Gilbert's sound design is filled with the usual gags (the tummy gurgling and farts) of a children's show which always receive loud laughter. 

Samuel Wilson (musical director) leads the song, which are each as impressive as the next. The title song is immediately catchy, promising audiences that they're in good hands, or trotters if you'd rather, from the very start. The three reprises of "A Little House" by each sibling feels meaningful as they each pour their own desires and emotions into the same lyrics, creating a nice variation to an already great song. However it's the Big Bad Wolf's "Huff and Puff" song, as he's blowing down the houses, that feels the strongest. With choreography by Sarita Piotrowski, these musical numbers create a ripple of glee in the young audience. 

The Three Little Pigs is "lots of fun" as exclaimed by a class of excited school children as they left the theatre. Aimed at children, the musical achieves everything it sets to do, whilst allowing adults to revel in its heart and hilarious word play as well, ultimately creating a fun musical for all.

The Three Little Pigs is currently playing at the Unicorn Theatre until 2nd November 2025. 

Tickets and More Information

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Danny Kaan