The Fifth Elephant

Having recently become  a NODA affiliated company it was a real pleasure to visit Strawmoddie for the first time to see their production of Terry Pratchet’s ’The Fifith Elephant’.

This fantasy play based.on Pratchet’s fantasy novel was new to me and I found it quite intriguing. Although quite a lengthy play it moved along at a good pace. Using front of tabs as well as slick staging allowed the transition of the many short scenes to run smoothly.

The large cast of most interesting characters whether dwarves, werewolves, vampires, trolls or aristocratic humans were played with real conviction. It must have been quite physically challenging for some who spent a great deal of time on their knees or moving  around on all fours. Each member of this cast gave a most  convincing, believable performance with excellent characterisation. It is perhaps unfair to single anyone out but Ben Blow’s Lady Sybil was most amusing. A wonderful ‘pantomime dame’ and what a fabulous singing voice. Alan Sunter also added a good deal of humour to the plot as a most animated Igor. There were many light hearted moments throughout the production and the subtle humour and quirky one liners were never missed. The antics at the party scene and the slosh all added to the fun and comedy. The clever use of puppetry for the endearing, most animated dog Gaspode was brilliantly handled by James Crruikshank .

Fabulous costumes, a simple but most effective set, creative lighting and very well chosen music enhanced this most  mysterious production.

This a  difficult play with so much going on and many complex scenarios. The balance of humour with the more serious aspects worked well and was certainly fun amd fascinating to watch.

Very well done one and all. I look forward to seeing your next production.

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