Roald Dahl: A Writer Who Continues to Shape Imaginations
Published: February 5, 2025
Roald Dahl’s stories have a way of sticking with people. Whether you first encountered them as a child or later in life, his books have a certain magic—blending humor, adventure, and just the right amount of darkness to keep readers hooked. His work isn’t just for children; it speaks to adults as well, tackling themes of justice, resilience, and the power of imagination. Now, yet another adaptation of his work is coming to life: the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) is bringing The BFG to the stage for the first time, proving once again that Dahl’s storytelling is as relevant as ever.
The writer who speaks to all ages
Dahl had a gift for storytelling that few could match. His books never talked down to children—they were filled with wild ideas, oddball characters, and a sense of rebellion that kids love. The BFG, first published in 1982, is a perfect example. It follows Sophie, a young orphan who befriends the Big Friendly Giant and helps him stop other, less-friendly giants from eating children. The story is filled with adventure and humor, but at its core, it’s about friendship and courage—themes that resonate no matter your age.
What’s remarkable about Dahl is that his books don’t lose their impact as you grow up. As kids, we enjoy Matilda because it’s fun to watch a smart, book-loving girl outwit her cruel headmistress. As adults, we recognize the deeper message about abusive power and the importance of education. Similarly, The BFG reminds us that even in a world of giants—whether real or metaphorical—the smallest people can make a difference.
The many lives of The BFG
Dahl’s work has been adapted countless times, but The BFG has had an especially interesting journey. It was first turned into an animated TV film in 1989, and in 2016, Steven Spielberg brought it to the big screen as a live-action movie starring Mark Rylance. Now, nearly a decade later, it’s heading to the stage for the first time with the RSC’s adaptation.
Set to premiere in Stratford-upon-Avon for a 10-week festive run in 2025, this stage version is particularly exciting. The RSC has a strong track record with Dahl adaptations—Matilda the Musical became a global sensation, seen by over 12 million people worldwide. If The BFG follows in its footsteps, it could introduce a whole new generation to Sophie and her giant friend in a way that feels fresh and immersive.
What makes this adaptation even more timely is how it will interpret the story for today’s audience. The BFG is a book about dreams—both the literal kind, which the giant collects in jars, and the bigger, more personal dreams we all have. As director Daniel Evans put it, the story reminds us that “if you believe hard enough, your dreams can come true.” That message feels particularly powerful in a world where hope can sometimes feel hard to hold onto.
Why Dahl’s work endures
The continued adaptations of Dahl’s work prove that his stories still hold weight. There’s something universal about the way he wrote about power, kindness, and standing up for what’s right. Whether it’s Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, or The BFG, his books remind us that intelligence, empathy, and bravery can defeat even the scariest villains.
At the same time, Dahl remains a complicated figure. His past antisemitic remarks have cast a shadow over his legacy, and recent changes to his books—removing certain words and phrases to make them more “suitable” for modern readers—have sparked debate. But regardless of how his personal views are judged, the fact remains that his work continues to inspire.
The upcoming RSC adaptation of The BFG is just the latest example of how Dahl’s stories refuse to fade. They live on through books, films, and now the stage, ensuring that generations to come will still meet Sophie, the BFG, and all the other unforgettable characters that sprang from Dahl’s imagination.