Perfect family theatre show for the end of the Summer at Friargate Theatre

Step into the magical world of the Giant’s garden. It’s full of music, beauty, bird song and stories!

But the Giant is cross. He returns to find children playing happily in his beautiful orchard. Every day after school, they laugh and play games under the blossom trees. So he puts up a big wall to put a stop to all the fun. Then winter seizes the garden in its icy fingers… Will summer ever come back?

Through storytelling, interactive games, live music, and puppetry, Riding Lights Theatre Company brings you The Selfish Giant – an inspirational tale of love and generosity, perfect for those 3+ and their families. FREE craft activities will be available each day between 12.30-6pm in our café/bar space at Friargate Theatre. 

Jared More (The Selfish Giant, Christmas Inn Trouble) and Matthew Rutherford (Night Falls, As You Like It) both return to Riding Lights to perform this two-hander show to York audiences at Friargate Theatre. A meet & greet with the cast will take place after each show.

Audience reactions to our 2019 production of The Selfish Giant: 

“It was wonderful. Perfectly pitched for this age group. The children were so engaged.”

“Riding Lights are so good. That was the best show we’ve ever had.”

“I want to see it 42 more times!”

“Five stars. No, TEN HUNDRED stars!”

Reviews from our 2025 Children’s Christmas show Christmas Inn Trouble:

★★★★★

“Rachel Price’s writing is sharp, and director Paul Birch keeps the action pacey from start to finish.”

“Riding Lights strike the balance perfectly.” 

Review Wizard

★★★★ 

“…fast-moving, fun, physical, fizzing two-hander for all the family.” 

Charles Hutchinson

★★★★ 

“The whole thing moves at lightning pace through farcical situations… a production which is equal fun for adults and children.”

The Reviews Hub

The Selfish Giant plays at Friargate Theatre Tuesday 01 – Saturday 05 September 2026. Tickets are available here.