Interview: Sean Patrick Nill, Playwright of "Winnie-the-Pooh"
Nathan Speckman, Marie Stewart Harmon, and Sloan Willows in “Winnie-the-Pooh,” adapted for the stage by Sean Patrick Nill.
Photo: Katie Day
Interview: Sean Patrick Nill, Playwright of “Winnie-the-Pooh”
CMTM is thrilled to bring A.A. Milne’s classic tales to life in the currently running production of “Winnie-the-Pooh” in CMTM’s Maddy’s Theatre. To give the community a closer look at the creative mind behind this adaptation, we spoke with playwright Sean Patrick Nill to learn more about his artistic journey, his approach to adapting such a beloved story, and what he hopes audiences will take away from this heartwarming adventure in the Hundred Acre Wood.
Sean Patrick Nill, playwright of “Winnie-the-Pooh.”
CMTM: What inspired you to create a new script based on A.A. Milne's “Winnie-the-Pooh,” and how did you approach adapting this beloved classic for a new audience?
Sean: I have always been the biggest fan of “Winnie-the-Pooh,” particularly the first book and its unique title character. He is arguably one of the most iconic fictional characters of the 20th Century, in my humble opinion. The theatre I work at in Sacramento had just learned that the book was going into the public domain, and I leapt at the chance to adapt it for our Family Series.
An aspect of the story that sometimes gets lost with the Disney adaptation is that this particular series of stories is literally set up as playtime between our author, A.A. Milne, and his son, Christopher Robin. It is a father and son spending time together by creating make-believe stories about this beloved teddy bear. When that relationship became clear, the rest of the play followed.
CMTM: How did you balance staying true to the original story while ensuring this adaptation resonates with children and their families today?
Sean: The majority of the book is still relevant today. While some ideas are outdated, the language and imagination of children that Milne captured is recognizable to this day. This is why these characters have remained popular throughout many generations.
With this adaptation, I was able to utilize the first book to focus on an important aspect of a child’s life: change. Our modern audiences have a much deeper appreciation for emotional learning. Because of this, I was able to write Christopher Robin and A.A. Milne in a more honest and vulnerable way. This version still captures the charm and joy of the initial book while also giving space for young people to explore the changes in their lives that might be scary or nerve-wracking.
CMTM: The play stars both young actors and adult professional actors. What do you think this intergenerational approach brings to the storytelling, and how does it enhance the audience's experience?
Sean: At the end of the day, WInnie-the-Pooh is a story for children, and it is magical to watch children tell it. These particular children onstage are dynamic, entertaining, and heartfelt. They will make laugh and think and probably cry all in one show. There are many professional adult actors I know who can’t do that.
Reba Askari and everyone at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine are phenomenal with these young talents. It’s an amazing thing to watch such talented young people tell this story and a great opportunity that the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine provides them.
Nathan Speckman and Sararose Willey in “Winnie-the-Pooh.”
Photo: Katie Day
CMTM: What was your process in developing the script? Were there any moments or scenes that were particularly fun or challenging to bring to life?
Sean: Adaptations are tough because there will always be wonderful stories and moments that end up on the cutting room floor. The initial book had 10 short stories in it, and if time permitted, I would’ve featured all of them. But, it’s tough to sit through a 4-hour play, so certain stories had to go.
I love creating the relationship between Christopher Robin and the neighbor girl who wants to be his friend. Those are two strong willed characters, and it’s always so fun to watch that conflict, particularly with children. Parents will definitely recognize their kids or kids they know through this play.
I personally love Eeyore’s Birthday. It’s such an iconic piece of children’s literature, and it’s a joy to watch onstage.
CMTM: Do you have any advice for young people interested in the playwriting process?
Sean: Write your stories down. If it’s a play, put it on. If it’s a short narrative, ask someone to read it. If it’s a poem, read it out loud to your friends and family. Great pieces of writing are meant to be shared.
Everyone has an active imagination and good thoughts in their heads. Writers put it down on paper (or a computer screen) and share it with others. It’s always a bit scary, it’s always thrilling, and most importantly, it’s always your story. Don’t be afraid to share it. It’s probably fantastic and entertaining and will make someone’s day a bit better.
Sean Patrick Nill with “Winnie-the-Pooh” Director & CMTM Theatre Artistic Director Reba Askari.
CMTM: How does it feel to have your play staged at the oldest children’s theatre in the nation, the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine?
Sean: It’s such an honor. The B Street Theatre, where I work, has been producing theatre for young audiences for almost 40 years and every day is rewarding and challenging. The fact that the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine is over 100 years old shows your community’s commitment to great storytelling for kids and families. There’s nothing like theatre for young audiences. Kids are honest about the stories we tell them, and it’s the ultimate compliment when a child likes your play. It’s such a milestone for me. The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine will always hold a special place in my heart.
CMTM: What messages or themes do you hope young audiences (and the adults who accompany them) take away from this production of Winnie-the-Pooh?
Sean: Even as adults, human beings want to be surrounded by people we can rely on. That process is scary and difficult and can leave one heartbroken. But friendship is always worth trying for. This adaptation of WInnie-the-Pooh ultimately is about the power of friendship and the need that we as humans have for connection. In my personal experience, play is one of the best ways to form those friendships, whether you are 5 and playing make believe, or 30 and playing a game of basketball or a card game or…playing make believe. This production of Winnie-the-Pooh captures that. You will laugh. You will cry. Most importantly, you’ll want to tell your friends how much you love them. That’s what I hope people get from the play.
Sean Patrick Nill (center) and the cast of “Winnie-the-Pooh.”