GIANT – The Play Comes to Thanet

On Wednesday, 18 November 2026, the Vue Cinema Thanet - Westwood Cross, in Cross, will host the play GIANT, a production that delves into the life of world-famous children's author Roald Dahl. The play, directed by Nicholas Hytner, features a talented cast, including John Lithgow, Aya Cash, Elliot Levey, and Rachael Stirling, and is set in the summer of 1983, a pivotal moment in Dahl's career. As the release of his book The Witches approaches, Dahl is facing backlash over a recently published article containing explicitly antisemitic content, forcing him to confront the consequences of his words.

The play, inspired by real events, explores the complexities of Dahl's character, presenting a nuanced portrait of the iconic author. Through a darkly humorous lens, GIANT examines the difference between considered opinion and dangerous rhetoric, raising important questions about the responsibility that comes with public platforms. As the story unfolds over a single afternoon at Dahl's family home, the audience is drawn into a battle of wills, culminating in a confrontation that will change the course of events.

With its talented cast and thought-provoking storyline, GIANT is a play that will resonate with audiences, inviting them to reflect on the power of words and the impact of public perception. The production's ability to balance humour and seriousness, tackling a difficult subject with sensitivity and nuance, makes it a compelling event. As the play navigates the intricacies of Dahl's character, it offers a unique perspective on the life of a literary icon, one that is both captivating and unsettling.

The play's runtime is 2 hours and 16 minutes, and it has a certification of TBC. Tickets are on sale with the button beside the article. This event presents a unique opportunity to experience a gripping and thought-provoking play, one that will leave audiences pondering the complexities of Roald Dahl's character and the consequences of his actions.

The venue, Vue Cinema Thanet - Westwood Cross, in Cross, provides an intimate setting for the play, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the story. With its talented cast, engaging storyline, and nuanced exploration of a complex character, GIANT is an event that will captivate and challenge audiences, making it a worthwhile experience for those interested in theatre and literature.