Long ago and far away, a magic callaloo tree grew in a village square. Whoever ate one of its leaves was granted a wish. One day, a greedy man stole the tree to keep all the wishes for himself. With the last leaf left, Mister and Missis wish for a child... But the greedy man wants it all. When he kidnaps their beloved daughter, she makes the most extraordinary escape.
Inspired by tales from her own ancestors, of resilience and freedom, Trish Cooke’s powerful reimagining of Rapunzel comes to life in this world premiere full of magic, love and community – directed by Unicorn’s Associate Director Robin Belfield.
Former children's TV presenter and Olivier nominated playwright, Trish Cooke is a multi-award-winning children's author. Published in 2024, The Magic Callaloo is a highly acclaimed children's book that was shortlisted for the 2024 English 4-11 Book Awards (Leicester), long-listed for the 2025 UKLA Book Award, and nominated for The 2025 Carnegie Medal. It was also included in the Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection.
“The Magic Callaloo pays homage to my ancestors and the roads they walked to freedom" Trish Cooke
A Unicorn Theatre production.
With special thanks to Charles Holloway OBE, Weston Theatre Season Partner.
