Arden Children’s Theatre invites families on an unforgettable adventure filled with courage, friendship, and excitement in “The Hobbit.”
Middle-earth comes to life in a magical, action-packed retelling of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved classic with Greg Banks’ lively stage adaptation and Rebecca Wright’s imaginative direction. With clever storytelling and dynamic staging, audiences are drawn into the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a humble hobbit whose courage, wit, and heart are tested.
The Hobbit unfolds on the Arden’s intimate 175-seat Arcadia Stage, at 40 N 2nd Street in Philadelphia, where a thrust seating arrangement immerses audiences in Bilbo’s journey.
With previews beginning April 2 and opening night April 15, the show will run through May 25.
The Hobbit’s dynamic cast features five talented actors who together play more than 20 characters throughout the 90-minute production – Eliana Fabiyi (Bilbo), Kelly McCaughan (Thorin and others), Nathan Alford-Tate (Balin and others), Ciera Gardner (Kili and others), and Sean Lally (Gandalf and others).
“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,” said 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.
Video Credit: Arden Theater
Single ticket prices vary by performance and start at $35. Tickets are available online, by phone at 215.922.1122 or at the box office.
There are several special events and performances for The Hobbit, including:
Student matinee Tuesdays through Fridays at 10:30 a.m. throughout the run of the show. Want to bring a school group? Submit a group inquiry here.
Wearable, customizable Smart Caption Glasses will be available to reserve beginning Saturday, April 18, 2025. Recommended for adults and children ages 12 and up. 10:30 a.m. Click here to learn more.
An American Sign Language (ASL) Shadow Interpretation, where signers follow or “shadow” a cast’s movement while interpreting the dialogue, will be presented on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. & Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 4 p.m. This allows patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing the ability to watch the actors and interpreters simultaneously. Click here to learn more.
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