Adventure awaits as Arden Children’s Theatre invites families to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with courage, friendship, and excitement in Greg Banks’ lively stage adaptation of The Hobbit beginning April 2. Directed by Rebecca Wright, the imaginative production brings Middle-earth to life in a magical, action-packed retelling of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved classic, designed for audiences ages seven and up. Through clever storytelling and dynamic staging, audiences are drawn into the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a humble hobbit who steps out of his comfort zone and embarks on an epic quest that tests his bravery, wit, and heart.
The Hobbit unfolds on the Arden’s intimate 175-seat Arcadia Stage (40 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA), where thrust seating arrangement immerses audiences into Bilbo’s journey. Previews begin April 2, opening night April 15 with performances through May 25.
The Hobbit’s dynamic cast features five talented actors—Eliana Fabiyi, Kelly McCaughan, Nathan Alford-Tate, Ciera Gardne and Sean Lally — who, together, play more than 20 characters throughout the 90-minute production.
This playful and whimsical adaptation of The Hobbit is perfect for young adventurers, highlighting the themes of friendship, courage, and loyalty that made Tolkien’s novel a classic of children’s literature – Rebecca Wright.
With a minimalistic set that captures the woodsy, forested landscapes of Middle-earth, audiences are transported into a magical, colorful world populated by fantastical creatures, including trolls, goblins, eagles, and elves—staying true to the vivid descriptions in Tolkien’s original book. The play follows Bilbo, who would much rather be nestled in his cozy Hobbit Hole with a cup of tea and a plate of bacon and eggs. Instead, he’s swept into an unexpected adventure, journeying through freezing mountains and eerie forests, where he encounters both fearsome foes and loyal friends. Though hesitant at first, Bilbo discovers that his true strength lies not in physical power but in his cleverness, bravery, and heart—transforming him from a timid hobbit into an unexpected hero. With a cast of longtime Arden collaborators and fresh new voices, the production blends story and spectacle, bringing the audience along Bilbo’s extraordinary journey.
The stellar cast features Eliana Fabiyi (Bilbo), a Philadelphia-based actor, writer, and sound designer who has previously appeared at the Arden in Treasure Island (Jim Hawkins/Emily), The Bluest Eye (Maureen Peal), Peter Pan (Jane/Tootles), and A Midsummer’s Night Dream (Fairy/Musician). Fabiyi’s regional work includes roles at People’s Light, Orbiter 3, and Ninth Planet.
If You Go:
The Hobbit begins April 2, opens on April 14, and runs through May 25.
Single ticket prices vary by performance and start at $35. Tickets are available online at ardentheatre.org, by phone at 215.922.1122, or at the box office at Arden Theatre Company (40 N. 2nd Street).
Special events/performances:
- Student Matinees | Available Tuesdays through Fridays at 10:30 a.m.
- Smart Caption Glasses | Starting Saturday, April 18, 2025
- American Sign Language (ASL) Shadow Interpretation | Friday, May 16, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. & Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 4 p.m.