What better than a fairy story at Christmas? This delightful retelling of the classic Grimm's tale is truly family friendly and a welcome alternative to the traditional pantomime.
Writer and director Kevin Dyer has updated the story without destroying its integrity or mocking its magic and in doing so has created a production that’s gently humorous, colourful, entertaining and with something to say to audiences both young and older.
In typical Eastern Angles style, the set is magnificent for the space: a wooden tower dominates one side of the acting area, a knight in armour the other.
This is the story of a foolish father who lies about his daughter’s abilities, a rather pathetic and selfish king, a malevolent wood sprite and a plucky girl whose courage and determination wins over immeasurable odds.
Four actors play all the characters. Jon Bonner is the Miller, whose lies begin the spiral of events, but also a very funny bearded Housekeeper who is rather tenderly trying to have a relationship with ‘Conrad’, the suit of armour. Will Castle plays the King really well as a spoilt brat, only interested in the latest toy or game coming in the post. Joanna Brown is perfect as the wily forest sprite of the title—bold, crafty and very new age—and Maia Elsey plays the Millers Daughter with a confidence and believability that gives the story its heart.
Original songs by Patrick Dineen help drive the performance along at a gentle pace, with a lighting design by Penny Griffiths that adds much to the atmosphere and magical quality of the production.
Once the Miller’s Daughter gets into the forest—cleverly suggested by a rope curtain drawn across the middle of the stage—there are nods to other fairytales in the characters she meets, and it all ends happily ever after as a good Christmas show should.
Suitable for all ages, this is a lovely show that’s not too long and is mindful of its audience. Heartily recommended.