The Butterfly Lion

On 24th April, the Key Stage 2 Reading Group went to The Barn Theatre in Cirencester to see a fantastic production of Michael Morpurgo’s ‘The Butterfly Lion’. They had read the book with Mrs Berry the previous term and were excited to see how the story would be brought to life on stage. Through music, simple props (potato mashers as warthogs!), clever lighting and a talented cast of actors, we were transported from England to the South African veld and back again through war torn France. Afterwards, we were very lucky to meet the cast and one of three puppets used in the play. The pupils, Mrs Webster and Mrs Berry had a most memorable afternoon:

‘I liked everything and my favourite bit was when Bertie found his white lion. I would recommend the book because it carried emotion in it but ended happily.’ (Millie, Year 5)

‘I loved reading and watching ‘The Butterfly Lion’. I would recommend it because it is a very heartfelt book and it was very creative in the play. My favourite scene was when they were in the war.’ (Bella, Year 5)

‘I loved the acting. My favourite character was the lion because he had three different puppets; the first one was the baby, then the teenage lion, then the adult, which was amazing.’ (Archie, Year 6)

‘I enjoyed the story line and my favourite character was Bertie, who played his part really well.’ (Billy, Year 6)