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Duffy and the Stiltskin: A modern twist on a timeless tale
At Cornwall 365, Christmas means soaking up the festive spirit through a variety of shows, from the laughter-filled pantomime at the Hall for Cornwall to the enchanting tale of The Mousehole Cat. But this year, Miracle Theatre are offering something that’s turning tradition on its head. Duffy and the Stiltskin re-imagines the classic story of Duffy outsmarting the Devil, blending humour, charm, and a festive sprinkle of Celtic magic.
The show begins with three eccentrically dressed characters performing a hilariously bizarre pagan ceremony. These quirky figures pop up throughout the show, donning outrageous headdresses and engaging in “Celtic” rituals that are as mysterious as they are entertaining.
Enter Duffy (Sophia Dear), a relatable heroine locked in a heated argument with her mother—not your typical teenage squabble, though. Duffy’s 33, and her Mother (Bec Applebee) thinks it’s high time she moved out. Enter Mr. Felawney (Ben Dyson), who hires Duffy as his housekeeper with one unusual condition: she must keep him fully stocked with woollen clothing. There’s just one small hitch—Duffy can’t knit.
But hope isn’t lost. Enter a peculiar, otherworldly creature with an offer too good to be true. All Duffy has to do is sign a highly suspicious contract… and her troubles might just knit themselves away. Or will they?
Written by Hannah Mulder (who also wrote this summer’s Love Riot, which we loved!) and Directed by Giles King, the show is full of vibrant characters, inventive storytelling, and a dash of Miracle silliness. Composer Jim Carey weaves pagan-inspired sounds into the fabric of the show, performed live by the cast alongside musicians Jen Dyer and Toby Kessell.
Duffy and the Stiltskin is steeped in Cornish culture. Keep an eye out for clever nods to iconic Cornish landmarks, like fogous, and delight in this ancient tale is reimagined with a hearty dose of ritualistic hilarity.
Catch Duffy and the Stiltskin at Princess Pavilion, Falmouth until Saturday 4th January.
