Visitors to Newcastle this Christmas can enjoy the magic of The Gruffalo’s Child following the unveiling of this year’s Fenwick window display.
The iconic city centre attraction brings to life the much-loved children’s story by author Dame Julia Donaldson and award-winning illustrator Axel Scheffler.
The Gruffalo’s Child has captivated generations of readers with its enchanting tale of imagination, adventure and courage. Now, Fenwick has reimagined the beloved story with a festive twist.
The display transports visitors of all ages into the deep, dark wood, where the Gruffalo’s child embarks on a daring adventure as her father sleeps.
Magical story
Set against a magical snowy woodland, the story unfolds as she tiptoes through the forest in search of the mysterious Big Bad Mouse, encountering familiar characters Fox, Owl and Snake along the way.
As the adventure continues, the little mouse casts a giant shadow beneath the moonlight, frightening the Gruffalo’s child and sending her scurrying back through the snowy woodland.
With Santa’s sleigh gliding through the night sky, the story takes a festive turn as she returns to her cosy home, complete with a twinkling Christmas tree, beautifully wrapped presents and a glowing fire.
The display concludes with the Gruffalo’s child snuggled up beside the Gruffalo, surrounded by the warmth, wonder and magic of Christmas.
Author Dame Julia Donaldson said: “It’s wonderful to see The Gruffalo’s Child brought to life in such a magical way at Fenwick. The Fenwick Christmas windows are such a loved tradition in Newcastle, and I’m delighted that the story will be part of creating special memories for families this year.
Inspiring
“I also hope the windows inspire children and families to discover, or rediscover, the joy of reading together.”
Behind the magical display is a remarkable feat of creativity and craftsmanship, with months of planning, design and production going into transforming the much-loved story into a series of animated Christmas scenes.
From the intricate woodland setting and carefully crafted characters to the movement, lighting and festive finishing touches, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to capture the charm of Axel Scheffler’s illustrations and the imagination of Julia Donaldson’s storytelling.
Mia Fenwick, CEO, Fenwick, added: “For generations, the unveiling of the Fenwick Christmas Window has marked the start of the festive season, bringing families together from across the North East and beyond.
“Bringing The Gruffalo to our windows has been a long-held ambition, and we couldn’t be more delighted to make it happen in such a special year for this much-loved character.
“Dame Julia Donaldson’s wonderful storytelling and Axel Scheffler’s iconic illustrations have captured the imaginations of children around the world, and we can’t wait to bring their world to life this Christmas in a celebration of the magic of storytelling.”
