Few authors are as synonymous with childhood as Roald Dahl and The Twits is a story that encompasses all that he stands for: humour, shenanigans and a lesson worth learning.

The play tells the story of a couple, the Twits, who are hideous, both to look at and in character. They constantly play horrible pranks on each other and are cruel to everyone else. They are also dead set on capturing a flock of birds outside their house by gluing them to a dead tree so they can cook them in a pie and, even worse, they keep a family of monkeys called the Muggle-Wumps locked up in a cage, forcing them to stand on their heads for hours every day! With the help of an exotic bird, the Muggle-Wumps and the poor flock of birds hatch a daring plan that will hopefully help them escape the clutches of the despicable couple once and for all.

The Twits is a Teatru Manoel production and created by Masquerade. This version of the eponymous play, adapted and directed by Ian Moore, promises to be as unforgettable as the much-loved book. "I see every production as an adventure and an opportunity to explore and play, and The Twits has been no different," shares Moore. "Much like the rest of Dahl's books, The Twits is a charming, moral tale about being loving, caring and being nice to one another."

The story is full of monkey business, mayhem, and mischief - a perfect combination that will delight children of all ages. "Although we will have to give the traditional panto a miss this year, The Twits is full of slapstick humour and audience interaction, not to mention flying!" says anthony bezzina, Masquerade's artistic director. "While it is important to take all the necessary precautions and feel safe, this production will be a kind of restart for families to go and enjoy the theatre once more."

With a mix of song, dance, drama and aerial tricks in a circus setting, The Twits has everything one could wish for to keep the entire family entertained. An hour of belly laughs is guaranteed as the audience helps free the Muggle-Wumps while playing the ultimate prank on the Twits. "I hope that the audience leaves the theatre with a spring in their step, leaving the horrid last 18 months we have all experienced behind them, if only briefly," says Moore.

"The Twits is a thrilling festive theatrical experience that will entertain all the family," says Teatru Manoel CEO Massimo Zammit. "There is no better way to spread Christmas cheer than to spend an hour together at Teatru Manoel, laughing and enjoying the talents of our artists and creatives, in a production that promises to be the culmination of a Merry Manoel Christmas!"

The Twits will be performed at Teatru Manoel, Valletta, at 3pm, 6pm and 9pm on 26 December, then at 4pm and 7pm on 27, 28, 29 and 30 December. The show is suitable for brave children aged six and above and their families and is staged in-line with all current Covid-19 protocols.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.teatrumanoel.com.mt, call on +356 2124 6389 or email on [email protected]