Roald Dahl’s classic tale is one of those endearing stories which sticks in the memory – even when your memory is on the way out.
There have been many stage and screen adaptations of a book first published 52 years ago.
And at Crewe Lyceum Theatre this week, Birmingham Stage Company’s own take on James Henry Trotter’s amazing adventure is as colourful and creative as many before it.
What the company has managed to produce is a show which delights the young, and transports us slightly older folk back in time to our own childhoods.
Played out by eight extremely talented performers, the lyceum show’s opening night combined fabulous energy, colour and imagination which had the children in audience on the edge of their seats.
There are darker elements to this tale which in past productions have provided a sinister feel – the violent death of James’ parents, the evil aunties who threaten to beat him, the sharks who try to eat James and his insect pals.
But David Wood’s adaptation is clever in the way it uses puppetry, music and movement to re-tell those elements in the story without veering away from the overall light, quirky and humorous tone.
Although the set is excellent, and music and lighting to be applauded, it is the characters who make this a real must-see.
The aunts are brilliantly wicked in a buffoonish sort of way, and the personalities of the insects really shine through – from the morose earthworm (Rhys Saunders) and the cocky centipede (Chris Lindon) to the silky smooth spider (Sioned Saunders).
James, played by Tom Gillies, is also well acted – the straight-laced put-upon schoolboy who remains positive and plucky through all his ordeals.
And that’s not to mention the sharks on scooters, seagulls on hats, and cloud men throwing ping pong balls!
This show, which runs at Crewe Lyceum every day until July 13, is highly recommended.
And that’s not just my opinion. I asked my seven-year-old how many stars he’d give it out of 5. “A million!” was his enthusiastic reply.
Showings:
Wednesday July 10 – 1.30pm
Thursday July 11 – 10.30am & 1.30pm
Friday July 12 – 7pm
Saturday July 13 – 2.30pm & 7pm
For more details on prices and to book, visit www.crewelyceum.co.uk
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