The Tiger Who Came to Tea is not only one of Britain’s best-loved story books, it’s also now among the most popular and long-running children’s shows in theatre. Directed by David Wood OBE, it has been nominated for an Olivier Award for family entertainment thanks to its catchy sing-along songs, engaging storytelling and on-stage magic. Part of what makes the show so enjoyable is its simple yet homely set design and its costumes, which perfectly reflect the illustrations in Judith Kerr’s book. Susie Caulcutt is the woman responsible for these elements - let’s take a look at her career. 

Training and career highlights

Susie Caulcutt studied painting and sculpture at Saint Martins College of Art in London before training under Motley at the English National Opera Design School. Her paintings, watercolours and theatrical sketches are held in private collections around the world, including at the Costume Museum in Leningrad. Throughout her illustrious career, Caulcutt has contributed to a wide array of productions both in the West End and internationally. Her credits include Play It Again Sam with Dudley Moore (Globe Theatre), Dandy Dick, directed by Sheila Hancock (Cambridge Theatre Company), and The Last of Mrs Cheyney with Joan Collins (Clarion Music Theatre). Caulcutt’s designs have appeared in a slew of children’s theatre productions for David Wood OBE. Among them are the West End productions and national tours of The Owl and The Pussycat Went to See…, The Dinosaurs and all that Rubbish, Rupert Bear and The Green Dragon, and Babe The Sheep Pig. She also designed the director’s hugely successful adaptations of Roald Dahl’s books, The Witches and The BFG. 

In addition to her stage work, Caulcutt designed the Rupert Festival for the V&A’s Museum of Childhood. Celebrating 75 years of Rupert Bear, the exhibition featured many of her original scale models, as well as her drawings, costumes and headdresses. She was also the costume designer for the BBC’s 2006 Party at the Palace, celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s 80th birthday. Her model of the Giant from The BFG featured in the Throne Room, and her designs could be seen throughout the gardens of Buckingham Palace.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

With an established professional relationship, it was no surprise that Caulcutt and David Wood collaborated on The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Caulcutt’s design and costumes faithfully reflect Judith Kerr’s original illustrations, adding clever touches that enhance the on-stage storytelling. The Tiger’s costume is bold and textured, conveying his friendly, approachable nature beautifully. 

See The Tiger Who Came to Tea at a theatre near you

If you love Judith Kerr’s original picture book, catch The Tiger Who Came to Tea children’s play at a theatre near you this season. Performances are taking place all over the UK, delighting children aged three and up. As one of the best theatre shows for families, it is tailored to shorter attention spans, and features lots of interactive moments to keep kids engaged. Book your tickets today for an unforgettable experience.