Introduction:

"The original London production of Children of Eden opened at the Prince Edward theatre in 1991 after a three month rehearsal period (possibly the longest for a musical production to date!) and the budget was around £4,000,000 which, in 1991, was pretty significant. At my final recall (the sixth I think) I remember screaming up and down a seemingly endless hall as a demented chimp before finally being cast as 'Dog', he was doctored (!) early in the run and, after rewrites, I was cast as Abel. I also played the role of Shem once and understudied Japheth and Adam. It was a hectic time!

"We had a fantastic multi-ethnic company, packed with talented individuals, many of whom have gone on to become major West End 'names'. Unfortunately, we opened on the night the Gulf war broke out and, after mixed reviews, closed three months later. The composer Stephen Schwartz referred to it as 'the most expensive work shop of a musical ever.' Eight years and many rewrites later the authors felt the show had achieved its final form and the version you'll see tonight premiered at the Papermill Playhouse in New Jersey and was positively embraced by critics and audiences alike.

"I have always believed 'less is more' in the theatre, so rather than go for vast sets and realism I have taken Children of Eden back to basics. I think my approach lets the heart of the piece shine through - please feel free to let your imagination take flight!

"I can't praise the energy and commitment of the fantastic young cast highly enough, they have been a joy to work with as has our musical director Colin Billing, a very talented individual. I have also been moved by the kindness and selfless dedication of the Big Little production team on countless occasions.

"Ultimately, Children of Eden deals with the importance of parenting and the ability to let go of our children when it is time for them to find their own identity and path through life. It also points to the interconnectedness of all beings. I personally believe in a higher consciousness that we are all an expression of - our personalities are like waves on a vast ocean that rise and fall, to rise and fall again, until we have evolved into awareness itself. If humanity were able to realise this oneness, would we indeed find Eden ?

"Enjoy!"

Graham Hubbard, Director

"Children of Eden has been a special journey for everyone involved (parents included!). As a musical it is beautiful and evocative. As an experience, in every regard, it has been immense. Watching the rehearsal process has been moving and inspiring. Graham, Colin, Lisa and the entire production team have guided this young cast through every step with meticulous care and devotion and in return the cast never faltered in their professionalism and dedication. An intoxicating combination which you will witness the result of tonight.

"Unlike the original production we did not have a budget of £4,000,000 meaning that we have required enormous support and generous giving of time and talent in order to bring Children of Eden to the Layard Theatre. My heartfelt thanks goes out to every single person who has contributed to its success. It quite simply would not have been possible without such wonderful people.

"Thank you for sharing this journey with us tonight. The continued support of our friends and families is so much appreciated."

Michelle Guy, Principal & Head of Drama

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