Review: The Adventures of Pinocchio at the Tobacco Factory Theatre
The annual Christmas show at the Tobacco Factory is a shining beacon for what good family theatre should be. In recent times, the audience has been taken to jewel filled caves with Ali Baba and a grass turfed auditorium for Robin Hood.
This year, we are treated to Carlo Collodi’s The Adventures of Pinocchio. On reflection, the story of the little wooden puppet brought to life by a brilliant but childless man could almost be considered as a Frankenstein for children. But, despite its many potentially dark moments, Toby Farrow’s script and Andy Burden’s direction skilfully presents Pinocchio’s story with the Factory’s familiar formula of traditional storytelling, songs, quality acting and the magnificent Felix Hayes.
Many mothers will recognise their own young sons in Peta Dennis’ wonderfully wide-eyed and pleasantly petulant performance of Pinocchio.
There is no lazy re-hashing of the Disney version here. Initially, Pinocchio could do with a stint on the naughty step. But, we quickly grow to love the little menace as he commences his long, magical journey from school to home and puppet to boy.
With clever costuming and an apparently wooden head, Peta appears every inch the puppet. The growing of the nose is simple and effective, avoiding cheap party pieces.
The cast performed with gusto. The gentle observations of childlike behaviour spot on.
Hannah Summers shone as Mamma C and the sinister child-catching Coach Mistress.
Playing Toby Farrow’s brilliant Jiminy creation, Felix Hayes comes dangerously close to becoming the show’s star as Jimmy.
Eoin Slattery is a great naughty friend and Krissi Bohn is a nicely understated guardian angel fairy.
Mark Ross plays the loving but flawed parent Geppetto, whose attempts to overcome the difficulties of parenting and track down his errant son no matter the odds brings the show to a touching climax.
Pinocchio is a great all round show, suitable for both children and adults.
There are some important messages for children to mull over as they follow Pinocchio’s lessons in life.
1. Don’t tell lies
2. Never go with strangers
3. Respect each other’s differences
4. Never, ever, ever eat too much ice cream.
Pinocchio has a tough act to follow after the truly fantastic 2009 festive offering of Ali Baba and the Forty thieves.
There are no worries here. This is another Christmas success for the Tobacco Factory – Pinocchio is no wooden act.
The Adventures of Pinocchio
Tobacco Factory Theatre
08 December 2010 – 16 January 2011
Tickets from £7
To book, call: 0117 9020344