Writer: Julia Donaldson
Director: Mark Kane
Stick Man is one of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s most popular stories and to the delight of many young children, Freckle Productions’ is touring their stage adaptation. The story follows Stick Man as he sets off on a morning jog, he is accosted by a stick loving dog who wants to play with him, a swan uses him as part of her nest, he’s as a pooh stick and finds himself on a fire… amongst other things. Stick Man is rather fed up and spends his time pining for his perfectly simple life with his Stick Lady love and three stick children back in their family tree.
The 55 minute show is a delight from the moment it begins. It is accompanied by an engaging, atmospheric score by Benji Bower that works well alongside the lighting and props to transform scenes. A wonderful feature of this production is that many of the musical elements of the show are produced on stage by talented actor-musician Rosie Malone. This is a hugely inspiring aspect for any child to see, and it adds another level of entertainment for the children being able to visualise the sounds effects heard. Having an actor-musician involved also means the audience are treated to wonderful saxophone solos throughout the show.
The set designed by Katie Sykes is centred around the family tree. Props are aplenty to ensure the audience are transported to the various locations Stick Man finds himself in. A particular highlight is the beach scene where Stick Man is used as a mast and a hoopla.
It’s hard to believe that only three people can produce this faultless, engaging show. Rosie Malone, Rosie Pepper and Ben Williamson-Jones give equally flawless performances. They characterise a number of different roles with energy, enthusiasm and skill and their puppetry work is clever and believable. They have the young audience and their families on the edge of their seats throughout, laughing, smiling and thoroughly enjoying the audience participation.
The performance is genuinely heart-warming and the cast are incredible. There isn’t a moment in the show that isn’t perfectly crafted to ensure there’s a constant stream of high energy entertainment. The ending is a crescendo of joy for any child, Santa appears on stage and gives Stick Man the best present he could ever wish for. This show is 55 minutes of pure joy, a must see for families regardless of whether they’re already a fan of the book.
Runs until 1st November 2023, before continuing on tour.
The Reviews Hub Score
Perfect!
