Last Updated on 15 August 2024 by Colette
This post features a gifted experience & affiliate links
It feels like ages since I’ve taken Amy to the theatre so a trip to see 13-Storey Treehouse at The Opera House, Manchester felt like the perfect mid-summer holiday treat for the two of us.
I was aware of Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s multi award-winning book The 13-Storey Treehouse from seeing it in the classroom or on recommended reading lists, but neither of us had actually read the story before so didn’t have a clue what to expect! And honestly, having watched it – I’m still not sure I could tell you what to expect.
13-Storey Treehouse is quite possibly the most bonkers bit of theatre I’ve ever watched – an hour long performance packed with slapstick, silliness and sound effects. There is no settling into this one, from the moment the show starts with a significant “technical hitch”, you are left wondering what on earth to expect next – Andy and Terry don’t really know either considering this is their first ever play, and they haven’t actually written it yet!
Amy said that the three main characters “worked very well to make the story look like it wasn’t planned but sometimes you can just tell it was”. Her favourite bit was when Andy and Terry launch themselves into the audience to fend off an invasion of monkeys . . . see, I told you it was bonkers!
The scenery and props are minimal and you’re asked to rely on your imagination a lot – but I think that’s to be expected from a couple of lads who live in a 13-storey tree house that has everything including a bowling alley, a secret underground laboratory, self-making beds and a marshmallow machine! Andy and Terry make up their wild and wacky stories and drag you along with them for the ride!
I did have a few moments of thinking, “what on earth am I watching?” but there were plenty of laughs from the children in the audience around us and Amy said she thought it was very funny. My gut feeing is that whilst the show is recommended for children aged 6 – 12 years, I think children in Year 3 and 4 would love it best – I was going to say Year 3 / 4 boys, but Amy told me not to be sexist and that she enjoyed it too! (She’s right, I was being a bit sexist but it just felt like the sort of daft humour that lads of that age especially enjoy!)
Tickets for The 13-Storey Treehouse at Opera House Manchester are available now with the show running until Sunday 18th August 2024
The show is aimed at children age 6- 12 with a one hour running time and no interval. Under 3s will not be admitted.
If you’re looking for somewhere to park near Manchester Opera House or need to grab a bite to eat before the show you’ll find some ideas here. And don’t forget to check out our guide to Manchester theatre too!
If you have enjoyed this post and found it helpful, here are a few ways you can say thanks and support We’re going on an adventure:
Click here to buy me a virtual coffee – it’s like a little tip jar but with caffeine!
I’d love for you to tag me in any photos of your adventures on Social Media if one of my posts has inspired you to visit
Click here to leave We’re going on an adventure a Google Review
Share this post with your friends – you’ll be helping me and them!
Follow We’re going on an adventure on Facebook or Instagram
