“Let’s wave at the 9:15!”

The Railway Children - inclusive of a real live steam train!

The production of The Railway Children at the National Railway Museum in conjunction with York Theatre Royal had an interesting set, one I have not seen before. When we entered, we were seated on either platform one or two, either side of a train track. What one may have seen it as a risky set-up, worked brilliantly, and the acting did not suffer from it – in fact, made it stronger as the audience felt more engaged and involved with the story.

Inclusive of a real live steam train (“Stirling Single”, a 39 tonne steam locomotive built in 1878), seated on the platforms of the station brings you close to the action and you feel as if you’re part of the action. The train rolling into the stage was an impressive attempt and worked brilliantly. 

The acting was superb – laughter, tears – all sorts of emotions were expressed by the audience. It was superb, and the relationships between the characters were strong. Well worth the watch if you’re in the neighbourhood.

£15 adults/£10 conc.

Book here at York Theatre Royal