TheUglyDuckling
27 September 2012

Review of The Ugly Duckling at New Wolsey Studio, 15 September 2012

By Rachel Sloane

 

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/