(TOMS RIVER, NJ) -- The OCVTS Grunin Performing Arts Academy presents A Monster Calls at Grunin Center for the Arts with three performances from November 14-15, 2025. This is based on the novel by Patrick Ness and inspired by an original idea by Siobhan Dowd, devised by Sally Cookson, Adam Peck and the Company.
‘Stories are wild creatures, the monster said. When you let them loose, who knows what havoc they might wreak?’
"Thirteen-year-old Conor and his mum have managed just fine since his dad moved to America. But now his mum’s very sick and she’s not getting any better. His grandmother won’t stop interfering, and the kids at school won’t look him in the eye.
Then, one night, at seven minutes past midnight, Conor is woken by something at his window. A monster has come walking. It’s come to tell Conor tales from when it walked before. And when it’s finished, Conor must tell his own story and face his deepest fears.
Performances take place Friday, November 14 at 7:00pm; and Saturday, November 15 at 2:00pm & 7:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase online. Grunin Center for the Arts is located on the campus of Ocean County College in Toms River, New Jersey.
On publication, A Monster Calls became a bestseller with children and adults alike, with its dazzling insight into love, loss, and healing. It garnered huge critical acclaim, including an unprecedented double win of the Carnegie and Greenaway Medals for outstanding children’s literature and illustration." - The Old Vic
A Monster Calls is a powerful story that explores difficult and emotional themes. The production includes depictions and discussions of:
* Death and grief
* Depression and anxiety
* Cancer and terminal illness
* Bullying and emotional abuse
* Moments of violence
They encourage audiences to prepare for these themes and to step out at any time if they need a moment of care.
