One night. One stage. Eighty-five years of stories now with even more voices from the world of Sodor.
On 25 June, London’s iconic Eventim Apollo will host a truly special one-off evening as “85 Years Of Letting Off Steam” expands its line-up with newly announced guests spanning page, screen and sound.
Joining Christopher Awdry on stage will be Mike O'Donnell, the original composer behind the beloved Thomas & Friends television score; Clive Spong, whose detailed artwork helped define the visual identity of The Railway Series; and Mark Moraghan, one of the modern voices of Sodor. Together, they bring a rare, multi-generational perspective to one of the most enduring storytelling worlds ever created.
Promoted by Splot and Full Steam Ahead, the evening celebrates the life and legacy of Christopher Awdry, storyteller, railway historian, and custodian of a literary phenomenon first imagined by his father, Wilbert Awdry. Across more than eight decades, their stories have evolved from bedtime tales into a global cultural touchstone.
Hosted by legendary producer and rail enthusiast Pete Waterman, the show will guide audiences through Christopher’s remarkable life, from his early writing ambitions and career in the civil service to his pivotal role in continuing The Railway Series between 1983 and 2011, just as the stories made their leap to television and international acclaim.
Adding to the sense of occasion, the event will also unveil an extraordinary collection of private family heirlooms never before seen in public. These include original drafts, handwritten notes, and rare artwork from the Awdry family archives, offering a unique glimpse into the creative process behind the world of Sodor and the meticulous craftsmanship that underpinned it.
More than a retrospective, “85 Years Of Letting Off Steam” is a once-in-a-generation gathering of the voices, talents and history behind a storytelling legacy built on friendship, engineering, resilience and imagination, brought to life on stage for one night only.