Review of The Ugly Duckling at New Wolsey Studio, 15 September 2012
Two actors, lots of props and a well-known tale: the perfect combination for a very young audience, from Kipper Tie Theatre.
Four year old Bethany and I went to see The Ugly Duckling at the New Wolsey Studio in Ipswich. At just under one hour’s length, it kept the audience (including parents and grandparents ) amused and happy with jokes, songs and a story of the ugly duckling gradually turning into a swan (with the help of some impressive white feathers).
As the poor duckling/cygnet (played by Sally Lofthouse) was rejected by all the other animals (all played by Bernie Byrnes) Bethany whispered to me, “we could be his friend, couldn’t we?”.
This was a simple moral tale of not judging some-one for looking different and it was enhanced by some simple Makaton sign language (well- known to most young children, because of Mr Tumble on cbeebies).
It was a lovely introduction to live theatre and another success from the New Wolsey – and their studio in St Georges Street is ideal as a small scale venue for little children.
Bethany’s favourite bit: when the ugly duckling turned into a beautiful white swan.
This review also appears on http://www.onesuffolk.net/home/previews-and-reviews/reviews/