Spotlight On: The Detective Dog
A joyful, accessible adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s book — for ages 3–7, with puppetry, scent & BSL access built in.
🐾 The Detective Dog by Tiny & Tall Theatre
An accessible and imaginative adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s award winning book, The Detective Dog
📅 Available for 2026 bookings
📍 Ideal for: Theatres, studio spaces and family-friendly venues
The Show
Three performers. A puppet dog. A mystery to sniff out.
This joyful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie’s beloved book brings The Detective Dog to life with puppetry, song, and magical scent technology — making it a truly sensory adventure for young audiences aged 3–7.
Nell the dog has a nose for finding things — and this time, it’s the school’s missing books. A charming story of curiosity, community, and clever canines.
“Whether it’s finding a lost shoe or discovering who did a poo on the new gravel path, Nell’s ever-sniffing nose is always hard at work…”
♿ Accessibility First
This production is proudly inclusive and deaf-friendly, developed in collaboration with deaf artists and consultants.
Features include:
Dynamic on-stage captions
Integrated British Sign Language
Consultation-led development with NDCS and deaf creatives
Non-verbal storytelling woven with spoken English
🎟️ Key Info
🎭 Type: Theatre
👶 Ages: 3–7
😂 Genre: Comedy for Families
🕒 Duration: 55 minutes
💷 Ticket Price Range: £10 – £16
📣 Language: Spoken, Non-verbal, English
💡 Settings: Theatre and studio spaces
🌍 Travel: UK & beyond
🌟 Reviews
“Utterly enchanting… my son was laughing out loud and sniffing the air with Nell!” – Parent review
“It’s not just a great kids’ show – it’s a masterclass in accessible, inclusive design.” – Programmer
“The scent technology really wowed the kids — and the adults!” – Audience member, Barnsley Civic
👏 Creative Team
Based on the book by Julia Donaldson (writer) & Sara Ogilvie (illustrator)
Adapted & Produced by Tiny & Tall Productions
Director: Peta Maurice
Design: Katie Sykes & Ruby Brown
Composer & Sound Designer: Jack Drewry
BSL Director: Lynn Stewart-Taylor
Puppetry Director: Tessa Bide
Lighting: Joe Price | Video: Christopher Harrisson
Puppet Design: Jess Jones | Props: Nerys Akers
Access Consultant: Jonny Cotsen
Production Manager: Dean Sudron
Producer: Alice Massey
Cast: Maia Ayling, Amy Murray, Hannah Tudge, Eleanor Pead
Stage Manager: Elliott Grant
ASM / Understudy: Jess May-Cox
Supported by Arts Council England, NDCS, ARC Stockton & Barnsley Civic
📅 2025 Tour Dates (First Wave)
30–31 May – ARC Stockton
7 June – Barnsley Civic
25 July – Lincoln Arts Centre
Interested in booking for 2026? Get in touch via the details below.
📣 Booking & Promo
Contact: hello@tinyandtall.co.uk
Website: tinyandtall.co.uk
Marketing Pack: Link
Photos: Gallery
📸 Photo credit: Paul Blakemore
Meet the Makers: Why Book Tiny & Tall?
Tiny & Tall Productions is an acclaimed theatre company creating joyful, inclusive, and imaginative shows that bring generations together. Led by Tessa Bide and Alice Massey, the company is known for blending high-quality puppetry, music, accessibility, and heartfelt storytelling into unforgettable experiences for audiences young and old.
They don’t just make theatre—they spark conversations across generations and make space for everyone in the room, regardless of age or access needs.
What Audiences & Critics Say
“An engrossing show that is full of compassion.”
– The Guardian ★★★★“Beautifully crafted.”
– Bristol 24/7“The beauty of this play will remain for a long time to come.”
– Curious Mum“Sophisticated and sensitive in its storytelling, exquisite in its design, and really trusts its young audience.”
– Children’s Theatre Reviews“Warmth and inclusivity that proper family theatre should always aspire to.”
– Bristol 24/7
What They Do
Create and tour original theatre productions across the UK and internationally
Run educational and outreach workshops for all ages
Offer mentoring and consulting to emerging artists
Champion accessible, sustainable and intergenerational work
Partner with schools, charities, and major venues (from rural halls to Royal Albert Hall)
Their Mission
“To use the magic of high-quality theatre to bring together intergenerational audiences and to tell stories that help us, and others, make sense of the world and our place in it.”
Whether it’s children and carers, families in community halls, or teens and grandparents in the theatre, Tiny & Tall Productions believes everyone deserves access to smart, soulful theatre.
Their Story
Originally founded as Tessa Bide Productions in 2013 with a solo show (The Tap Dancing Mermaid), the company grew organically—powered by collaboration, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. In 2024, the name changed to Tiny & Tall Productions to better reflect who the work is for.
They’ve toured everywhere from village halls to the Netherlands’ national theatres, and continue to innovate with eco-conscious practices, deaf-led accessibility, and genre-defying creativity.
Who’s Behind It
Tessa Bide – Artistic Director
A theatre maker, puppeteer, director and producer with a passion for intergenerational storytelling. Resident Artist at Pervasive Media Studio and Associate Artist at Puppet Place, Tessa is also a mentor, workshop facilitator and consulting artist.
Alice Massey – Producer
An expert in producing for young audiences and families, Alice leads on sustainable practices and offers consultancy in eco-friendly theatre-making. She’s also a dance teacher, movement director, and all-round creative powerhouse.