Roald Dahl's "The Enormous Crocodile" Comes to Life on Stage

The Roald Dahl Story Company's puppet-infused musical adaptation of the classic children's book arrives at the Studebaker Theater in Chicago.

Feb. 11, 2026 at 1:39pm

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The Roald Dahl Story Company's production of "The Enormous Crocodile: The Musical" brings Dahl's beloved story about a ravenous reptile to the stage at the Studebaker Theater in Chicago. Featuring puppets faithful to Quentin Blake's original illustrations, the show follows the Enormous Crocodile's "secret plans and clever tricks" to catch and eat unsuspecting children, and the efforts of a group of jungle animals to stop him.

Why it matters

Dahl's stories have enchanted generations of children, and this musical adaptation allows audiences to experience the author's whimsical and mischievous world in a new, immersive way. The production also highlights the enduring appeal of children's literature and the power of live, theatrical storytelling.

The details

Directed by Emily Lim, the musical features a book and lyrics by Suhayla El-Bushra, music by Ahmed Abdullahi Gallab, and additional music and lyrics by Tom Brady. The show's colorful puppets, designed by Toby Olié, are based on Quentin Blake's iconic illustrations from the original book. The cast includes Chelsea Da Silva as the Enormous Crocodile, Precious Abimbola as Trunky the Elephant, Ciara Hudson as Roly Poly Bird, and Marienella Phillips as Muggle Wump the Monkey.

  • The Enormous Crocodile: The Musical is playing at the Studebaker Theater in Chicago from February 11 to February 21, 2026.
  • The show is part of the eighth annual Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival.

The players

Roald Dahl Story Company

The production company behind the musical adaptation of Dahl's classic children's book, The Enormous Crocodile.

Studebaker Theater

The historic theater in Chicago's Fine Arts Building that is hosting the production.

Chelsea Da Silva

The actress portraying the Enormous Crocodile in the musical.

Precious Abimbola

The actress playing Trunky the Elephant, one of the jungle animals trying to stop the Crocodile.

Ciara Hudson

The actress playing Roly Poly Bird, another of the jungle animals.

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What they’re saying

“Appetite is a primal need and an anxiety that plagues the omnivorous: to eat, or to be eaten? To starve, perchance to drool.”

— Irene Hsiao

“The catchy bops might make up for the absence of suspense or character development, if you can stand the volume.”

— Irene Hsiao

What’s next

The Enormous Crocodile: The Musical will continue its run at the Studebaker Theater through February 21, 2026, with additional performances scheduled as part of the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival.

The takeaway

Roald Dahl's imaginative stories continue to captivate audiences of all ages, and this musical adaptation of The Enormous Crocodile brings his whimsical world to life in a visually stunning and immersive theatrical experience.