The Elves And The Shoemaker

Published Thursday 5 April 2007 at 12:35 by Kevin Berry

There is a wonderful new character in this show - Hickory Dickory Dock, the famous stunt mouse. Only he is now going by the name of Hickory Smith because he has lost his confidence.

Obviously Hickory gets his confidence back and all is ultimately well with the good folks. Nick Lane’s take on the much loved fairy tale is his best children’s show yet. It has clever comedy, yucky words to giggle at and some fine songs. Lane even has the shoemaker’s wife getting involved in the story of the Frog Prince and the Princess and the Pea.

Songs in children’s show are usually humable for only a few minutes but Tristan Parkes has put together a fine collection. Hickory, played with great glee by Howard Gossington, introduces himself with a super rock number.

Gossington and Letty Butler have a fun time as Giotto the shoemaker and his scheming, not very nice wife Catalina. They also play the heroic and helpful elves. Both act with sincerity and infectious comic joy and their manner with the children is faultless.

A pity then that the elves did not welcome the children as they walked into the performance space. Also, that the stage lights were not switched on to show the scenery. When the elves did appear they were not recognisable as elves. How about a couple of pointy hats and perhaps a waistcoat for Ms Butler?

Those comments aside this is a colourful and vibrant show. Grown ups who tag along will be delighted.