Elmer the patchwork elephant to make Artsdepot his stomping ground

Multi Olivier Award-nominated Tall Stories (The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom) brings David McKee’s Elmer the Patchwork Elephant to life in a brand new show at Artsdepot for three days this May Bank Holiday (23rd-25th May 2025).

Created for everyone aged 3 and up, ‘The Elmer Adventure’ takes audiences into the heart of a magical jungle. Three friends hear reports of a real-life patchwork elephant roaming in the jungle, so they all set off together on a quest to find him.

As they explore deep in the heart of the jungle, the adventurers talk about how they have loved the story of Elmer since they were childhood friends and how they always celebrate Elmer Day every year.

Brimming with Tall Stories’ unique creative storytelling, magical puppetry, playfulness, songs and humour, everyone is invited to come to see the show wearing their most colourful clothes and accessories.

Elmer was created by David McKee and first published by Andersen Press in 1989. There are 30 picture books in the series and more novelty titles. Elmer has since gone on to sell over 10 million copies in over 60 languages.

Performances at the arts centre will include a relaxed performance on 23rd May and two shows on 'National Elmer Day' (24 May 2025). Artsdepot will provide extra game and craft activities to celebrate, including Make Your Own Elmer Ears and games like Pin the Trunk on Elmer.

Monique Deletant, CEO/Creative Director of Artsdepot says:

“Elmer has captured hearts for generations with his kindness, individuality, and vibrant colourfulness, and we’re so pleased to welcome his kaleidoscopic adventure to artsdepot this May bank holiday weekend."

"The superb show from Tall Stories is a joyful way for families to connect, spark imagination, and for kids to enjoy some creative time away from screens."

"We’re also celebrating Elmer Day at artsdepot on Saturday 24 May with further activities to accompany the performance, celebrating friendship, kindness and inclusivity at the heart of David McKee’s much-loved stories."

"Drop into our café from 10am-2pm for free family fun, including crafts like Make Your Own Elmer Ears and games like Pin the Trunk on Elmer, perfect for little ones to get involved and feel part of Elmer’s colourful world.”

Toby Mitchell, Tall Stories Artistic Director said “I’m excited we are bringing Elmer to Artsdepot. Elmer is such a wonderful character that so many people love. He's full of fun, but underneath he is always thinking of others around him. We wanted to capture the magical spirit of Elmer through Tall Stories unique design and audience interactions and ‘try it at home’ storytelling. When we add a big dose of the Tall Stories playful silliness and surprise in - we know our audiences will love to see Elmer come to life.”

Paul Black, Andersen Press, said: “The Elmer books are about accepting who you are and celebrating difference. In the original story, Elmer tries to be like the other elephants, but in the end, he has to be himself. Tall Stories has captured that in this captivating, engaging new show, which we can’t wait for Elmer fans young and old to see for themselves.”

Artsdepot booking information for 'The Elmer Adventure'

Suitable for ages 3+

Running time: 55mins

Dates and performance times for Fri 23 - Sun 25 May:

• Fri 23 May, 2.00pm (Relaxed performance)
• Sat 24 May, 11.00am
• Sat 24 May, 2.00pm
• Sun 25 May, 11.00am
• Sun 25 May, 2.00pm

Link to book: www.artsdepot.co.uk/event/the-elmer-adventure/#book-now