Christian James (left) and Martin Neely in The Adventures of Pinocchio at the Greenwich Theatre, London. Picture: Claire Bilyard
The Adventures of Pinocchio continues at the Greenwich Theatre, London until 23 August.
Star rating: three stars ★ ★ ★
Everyone knows Carlo Collodi’s classic tale of Pinocchio – the wooden puppet who just wants to be a real boy. A woodsman called Geppetto (Martin Neely) only wants a son or daughter to fill his empty life. He makes himself a boy out of wood who comes to life. Through a series of misjudged events, father and son are torn apart as Pinocchio (Christian James) embarks on a surreal and slightly wild adventure. This version of events, written by writing duo Neil Bartram and Brian Hill, has an interesting twist at the end that brings to mind the drums from the end of an EastEnders episode.
The show begins with a well-suited shadow puppet performance in a beautifully artistic introduction to the story. Another impressive effect is the way that Pinocchio’s nose grows as if by magic and returns to its original size in an equally entertaining fashion.
As a small cast telling a big tale, it is clear how much effort is put into this show from the fast pace role-switching to the marvellously executed songs and dances. The cast does a phenomenal job in keeping the young members of the audience captivated. As memory may serve, Pinocchio has a few scary moments, but with such a loveable cast, it’s hard to be afraid.
Perhaps the only thing lacking is material to keep the adults entertained as well the children. It is certainly clear who Bronagh Lagan’s production is aimed at and she does a terrifically good job, the show would only be improved by an extra component to engage the adults too.
Considering the reception by the end of the show, though, Pinocchio has once again won over the hearts of his audience. It is a lovely little summer holiday adventure.
Tal Fox
Readers may also be interested in:
The Who’s Tommy – Greenwich Theatre – Review
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