The Stage

Beneath the Banyan Tree

Published Monday 12 October 2009 at 13:15 by Kevin Berry

This first staging of Emil Sher’s popular story reaches out in such admirable fashion. It draws children and their parents in and they are thoroughly absorbed. There is vivid, exciting colour in the costumes and the props, such as an adorable peacock fan, and sweet exhilaration in the free ranging physicality.

Anjali is a young Indian girl, newly arrived in the cold, damp UK. Initially bewildered and unsure of what to do, she gradually gains the courage to be herself. Anjali loves dancing and we see her perform in the Bharatanatyam style, from Southern India. English and Indian cultures meet and share. Going to school becomes a dance, as do playground antics. Archana Ballal plays Anjali with affecting sincerity. Grethe Jensen gives crucial support as her grandmother and an initially unpleasant schoolgirl.

An interesting element is Sher’s dialogue. Pure and simple, yet having reassuring truths that children will recognise. They will respond to its clarity and immediacy.

A banyan tree dominates the stage, roots spreading around the performance space. Its trunk is a frame on which John Afzal and Paul Conway climb, hang and swing. Afzal has a delectable voice and he keeps it beautifully toned. Conway is excellent as Anjali’s first new English friend and his playing of the spoons is sure to inspire children who see him.

Beneath the Banyan Tree is Theatre Hullabaloo’s first venture under what is a new name. The company was formerly known as CTC theatre and is celebrating 30 years of theatre making.