Theatre / Bristol old vic
Review: Zog and the Flying Doctors, Bristol Old Vic – ‘A perfect theatrical experience for little ones’
As theatre for young families goes, Freckle Productions have proved themselves to be hard to beat with their adaptations of Julia and Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved children’s stories.
They’ve previously covered Stick Man, Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales, Tabby McTat, and Zog, and now turn their attention to the next adventure for the orange dragon and friends: Zog and the Flying Doctors.
Emma Kilbey, who directs the latest production, and Joe Stilgoe, who wrote the music and lyrics, are something of a creative dream team.
is needed now More than ever
Zog and the Flying Doctors – photo: Mark Senior
Fans of the books (as well as parents who have been persuaded to read, and re-read them across multiple bedtimes) will know that while Zog can be a bit of a slog, the sequel is much more fast-paced.
The action flits between the dragon turned air-ambulance to a mermaid’s rock, lion’s cave, unicorn’s meadow, and king’s castle, and the colourful and slick mountain backdrop set is easily transformed with each scene change.
Beautiful puppetry and costuming helps to bring the magic of the book to life, as well as lovely treatment of the ‘bang, crash, thump’ refrain that is woven through the story.
There are universally strong performances from the talented ensemble, though special mention should go to standouts Lois Glenister as Princess Pearl, and Danny Hendrix as the very funny King, forced to hold a mirror up to his misogyny, as well as his bright orange face.
Zog and the Flying Doctors – photo: Mark Senior
Though the narrative zips by, there is plenty of scope for a catchy song and dance number along the way, as well as welcome moments of interaction with the young audience (the show is recommended for 3+) who were engaged throughout.
The feminist empowerment messaging is clear, but treated with a lightness of touch, and the children bustled out of the Bristol Old Vic’s main auditorium with big smiles on their faces.
Not much more you can ask for really.
Zog and the Flying Doctors is at Bristol Old Vic on April 19-24; times vary. Tickets are available at www.bristololdvic.org.uk.
Main photo: Mark Senior
Read more: Review: Vixen, The Weston Studio, Bristol Old Vic – ‘Dynamic and full of heart’
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