Pinocchio

Based on the novel for children called “The Adventures of Pinocchio” by Italian author Carlo Collodi, written in February 1883 and Inspired by the story that we all know and love from the Walt Disney animated film released in 1940, this youth production of Pinocchio from the “Waterloo and Crosby Theatre Company” was written and directed by Leslie Longley with choreography by Laura Ratcliffe, and it appeared to be an enjoyable experience for both the children on the stage and the proud parents and family members in the audience. The cast included children of all ages from the very young to teenagers who all performed with lots of energy and loads of enthusiasm There were some nice promising performances from this young enthusiastic cast which included Elliot Heap in the central important role of Pinocchio and Sam Ashcroft as Pinocchio’s conscience the cricket Bob, with Euan Parkes in the role of Geppetto and Nikita Madden as Marie-Nette. Ebony Stevenson-Silcock as Tommy and Natasha Dowd as Bargain Bill worked well together with good comic timing making a very good entertaining comedy duo. Other nice interesting performances were given by Sarah Henshaw as The Blue Fairy, David Coyne as Calzonne, Amber Longley as Lampy and Jake Andrews as Warden James. Just a couple of constructive comments, sometimes it was a little hard to hear the dialogue, but I am sure the art of projection will be learned with experience and also the pace was a little slow at times, however this did not detract at all from the audience’s enjoyment of the show. Musical numbers were accompanied very well by Ann Dickinson on the piano or by the use of backing tracks, I particularly enjoyed the number “Revolting Children” from Matilda as all the children appeared to be involved and they all looked as if they were really enjoying performing it.

Staging was minimalistic and the scenes were set by very good use of props and by a very efficient stage crew, which was effective.  I am sure a great deal of thought and preparation had gone into getting the costumes just right as they were all very colourful and suited the characters very well and along with excellent make up enhanced the production.

Congratulations to writer and director Leslie Longley, and everyone involved with this production and well done for all their hard work and encouragement given to this young enthusiastic cast. Thank you for a lovely afternoon.

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