The Gift

A mountain of discarded wrapping. A lonely child with an active imagination.

It’s often the cardboard boxes, not the gifts inside that are the most fun.

Is the true gift the joy that can come from the imagination?

This is a story reversing the idea that it is the wrapping paper, the cardboard boxes and ribbons that should be discarded, and reveals that playfulness, creativity and imagination are the true gifts. This beautiful production celebrates the art of play, taking ordinary objects making them extraordinary and magical.

“I didn’t realise it didn’t include batteries…!” The disappointment of a toy that doesn’t work – every parent’s nightmare! But not to worry, this will become the best day ever with the arrival of an imagined friend and together they transform the world around them.

This festive show will ignite a playfulness, inspiring children and their families to find new games together when it’s their turn to open gifts!

Originally commissioned by Aberdeen Performing Arts, Capital Theatres and Eden Court Highlands.

Awarded Best Production for Children and Young People and nominated for Best Design at the Critics Awards for Theatre in Scotland (CATS) 2023.

“★★★★★ a dazzling, mesmerising seasonal dance offering... Confirming the ‘less is more’ message, this most apposite Christmas story will have its young audience clapping, giggling, and gazing in wonder from start to finish”

The Wee Review

“★★★★★ An explosion of imagination and unadulterated emotion and glee”

Corr Blimey

“★★★★★ Barrowland Ballet's jewel of a dance theatre show...is a real treat of a show that can’t be recommended enough.”

All Edinburgh Theatre

“★★★★★ The Gift is technically superb, narratively charming, beautifully staged, and genuinely funny”

The Quintessential Review