There are some moments of emotional intensity, including references to Wilbur the pig’s life being in danger and themes of friendship, loss, and the cycle of life. Some characters use unkind words to describe him.

There are several references to the realities of farm life, including discussions of animal culling and butchering. Wilbur’s life is threatened multiple times, and one scene includes a character sharpening an ax. A child character briefly pretends to wield a wooden dagger and air rifle. Charlotte is shown consuming insects, which includes a mention of her drinking their blood. There is also a passing line about using a knife on someone, delivered in a stylized and non-graphic way.

There are theatrical effects, involving sound and lighting throughout the show. There are moments of thunder and lightning that may startle some children. Fireworks also appear in the show, adding sudden bright flashes and loud sounds.

The story centers on Wilbur’s survival, with repeated references to the possibility of his death. Early in the show, there is a tense moment when a baby pig is nearly killed. Additional potentially distressing moments include an animal being forcibly given medicine and Wilbur’s anxiety about not winning a blue ribbon. The most emotional moment occurs when Charlotte dies.