Mischief Theatre meets Horrible Histories in this beautifully preposterous world created by Rubbish Shakespeare Company and Silly History Boys. The Story Forge: Make Your Own Myth at Leeds Playhouse was the most enjoyable hour this critic has spent at the theatre in years.
Masterfully combining improvisation, audience participation and comedic storytelling to create a unique theatrical event, this two-hander is an utter joy from start to finish. Lee Hithersay and Robert Bond work tirelessly and seamlessly together to create a rollicking and rip-roaring farce from the young audience’s ideas. Don’t be put off by the show’s target market though, as the adults in the room were literally belly laughing at the sheer madness and artistic brilliance of it all.
From the moment the performance began, the energy and enthusiasm of the cast was palpable. The show, anchored by these two brilliant actors, assume the roles of eccentric professors of history. Their comedic timing and chemistry set the tone for an afternoon filled with comedy and sophistry. The premise is delightfully simple yet endlessly entertaining: the audience is invited to contribute ideas, which the performers then weave into brand new myths on the spot. This ensures that no two shows are ever the same, offering a fresh experience each time.The three ‘myths’ explored in today’s show being the story of West Park in Leeds, The Legend of the Thinking Putty (don’t ask!) and Hester: The Goddess of Chance – an illuminating tale of cunning and bravery including a mythical Dice (Die) that squirts ketchup whenever you roll a three!
One of the standout aspects of The Story Forge is its emphasis on clowning and physicality. The performers work their socks off to engage younger audience members whilst creating pantomimic gags, on the spot, for the grown ups in the room. Your reviewer will definitely be listening to the new Silly History Boys Show Podcast whilst looking forward to things to come. If Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton did children’s theatre, it would look just like this. Outstanding. You’d be mad to Myth it!
Reviewed on 9th April 2025.
The Reviews Hub Score
Don’t Myth It!
