The Priory present a delightful production of Goodnight Mister Tom

Mister Tom (Stuart Lawson), William (Jacob Reid). Photo courtesy of The Priory.

Goodnight Mister Tom adapted by David Wood from the novel by Michelle Magorian at The Priory Theatre, Kenilworth from 2 to 12 September 2026.  Directed by Pete and Rachel Davis.

Review by Ann Evans

This classic story of a young evacuee, William Beech, taken from his abusive London home to live in the countryside with elderly recluse Tom Oakley is a heartwarming story of love, friendship and hope. The story itself has won many awards across its adaptations of children’s book, television, film and stage – and The Priory Theatre cast have certainly done it justice with their current presentation of the story.

Directed by Pete and Rachel Davis, the play begins with grainy black and white film footage of children being evacuated from London at the outbreak of World War II. As those moving images fade into reality, a group of children come down through the auditorium to the very simply laid out stage.

George ( Alex Prior), Zach (Jack Shenton-Thompson) and William (Jacob Reid). Photo courtesy of The Priory Theatre.

One of these children – a quiet young boy, William Beech played by Jacob Reid is placed in the care of a grumpy recluse and widower, Tom Oakley – played by Stuart Lawson. The awkwardness between the two to begin with is palpable, and as the story progresses and Tom’s kindness and care of William, who’s been badly mistreated by his mother, helps the boy to trust and grow in confidence and his abilities.

Sammy the dog, Tom Oakley (Stuart Lawson), Dr.Shelton (Rob Warnes). Photo courtesy of the Priory Theatre.

Excellent performances by Stuart Lawson and 13-year-old Jacob Reid. Stuart is a seasoned actor at The Priory for the last 37 years, while this was Jacob’s debut performance with the main theatre – although he is a member of The Priory Youth Theatre. And what a brilliant start for him as his character gained confidence and grew – he was totally believable; his acting was faultless and he delivered his lines – as all the cast did, clearly and audibly.

William (Jacob Reid) and his mother (Nicky Main). Photo courtesy of the Priory Theatre.

Completing their little family is Sammy, the collie – brought to life by Connor Cunningham. As well as being the puppeteer for Sammy, Connor is currently serving as the theatre’s Production Manager, and preparing for roles in forthcoming shows. But his work with Sammy was amazing, creating such a loveable canine best friend to Mister Tom and William. The dog had so much personality you almost forgot that he wasn't real!

William and Mister Tom in rehearsals. Photo courtesy of The Priory.

Every one of the cast played their roles so well, but special mention to Jack Shenton-Thompson who played Zach – the theatre-loving extrovert who becomes such a good friend to William. Also, Alex Prior as George making his debut at The Priory; and the twins Carrie (Isla Coleman) and Ginnie (Erin Tompkins) whose characters shone.

All in all, it was a really enjoyable production, played to a packed house. There was a certain simplicity to the set which made for ease of scene changes – a fold-back background, solid cardboard boxes and one or two other necessary props – simple yet effective. They more than made up for this with the sound effects and special lighting and fog effects. We switched from the peace and quiet of the countryside, to foggy London in the Blitz in a matter of seconds.

Goodnight Mister Tom is such an emotional and heartwarming story it was a real pleasure to watch. Well done cast and crew at The Priory, a delightful production.

To book tickets call Ticket Source on 0333 666 3366 or visit:  https://www.thepriorytheatre.co.uk/book