Monday 6 June 2011

Review: The Magician's Daughter @ Little Angel Theatre (2/6/11)

Now the thing is- The Prompt doesn't have kids, or at least, doesn't attend a whole host of children's theatre. So when invited to review this latest offering at the Little Angel in Islington (which, by the way, is now celebrating it's 50th year) it seemed, to the aforementioned Prompt, rather hard to identify any sort of regular journalistic angle to apply to his write-up. Following at least three and a half minutes of desperate phone conversation prior to the performance with the maniacal editor, the conclusion was made that kids like simple. Keep it simple.

The Prompt decided to pose to himself the following questions, upon which he would base his conclusions:

1.  Did the kids enjoy the show?

Yes! The Little Angel Theatre is the home of British Puppetry, and plays host to some of the most exciting and innovative childrens shows to grace London and indeed the UK. Couple this proven formula with former children's laureate Michael Rosen's scribblings, and you'll struggle to find a single unhappy ice-cream stained face in the audience. The eclectic mix of dazzling puppetry and song, performed by two talented young ladies of the Royal Shakespeare Company (Lizzie Wort/Claire Rebekah Pointing), had the audience spellbound. Those above the age of 18 were intrigued by the interwoven plot of Shakespeare's 'The Tempest', while the rest of the auditorium giggled and shrieked with glee at the multitude of sounds, characters and comedy moments served up upon a most wonderful desert island set. There was a suitable ammount of audience participation; panto style, yet not at all cringe worthy, and the plot was totally accessible for all:- the smiles and laughter in the foyer following the show a testament to the efforts of the whole company.

2. Did the show awake The Prompt's inner-child?

Yes!! The Prompt (child-like anyway) was to be found at the rear of the auditorium, attempting to stifle his sniggers at some of the wonderful comedic moments conjured up by the hapless Caliban; whose hunger for 'fruity-fruit' inspires comic capers-a-plenty in spite of the quelling efforts of the fairy Ariel- whose posession of the 2nd half of the magic staff results in a hilarious burglary attempt on the part of Isabella and Caliban. The show appeals to adults and kids alike, and is extremely well acted in order to achieve this 'unanimous' feel. For those of you with stressful daytime emplois, take the kids to see this- it will prove a welcome escape!

3. Were the puppets cool?

YES!!! Not just cool, these puppets are simply incredible. They move in the most spectacularly life-like manner, and seem to don unique and sentient facial expressions as plot lines play out and emotions flow through both the voices of the actresses and the body language of these mythical creatures; seemingly alive before your eyes!

Conclusion

If the Prompt was a parent, he'd take his kids to see this show. It's reasonably priced, held in a wonderful and intimate space that is perfect for this type of performance, and is immensely enjoyable for the whole family.

If he was a child he'd probably cover you in strawberry ice cream...

(5* issued by Master Toddler. Prompt)

No comments:

Post a Comment