The Emperor’s New Clothes,┬áSaturday 10th December, Sherman Theatre. Reviewer:┬áHannah Stait. Photography:┬áKirsten McTernan.
If there was ever a time of year to feel nostalgic then it has to be the month of December,┬á which is why many flocked to the Sherman Theatre to see Alan Saunders’ adaption of the classic Hans Christian Anderson tale The EmperorÔÇÖs New Clothes (a co-production between Sherman Theatre and Theatr Iolo). With the small intimate studio it was hard not to feel engaged with both the show and the actors themselves who used the space incredibly, using the round space to creatively portray the classic fairy tale.
Directed by Kevin Lewis, the way in which the story is told allowed for both the children and adults in the audience to laugh and smile at the story, that was well known by the adults and a real treat for the children. We were all smiling right from the start of the performance, and a big part of this was due to the comedic timing of the actors. The simplistic lighting and small number of props meant that there was no where for the actors to hide. Not that there was any hiding necessary due to the brilliant execution of performance made by the small cast of three. Geraint Rhys Edwards shined in the focal role of adolescent Kare and later at his adult self The Emperor. He differentiated these roles incredibly well, shining confidently in the studio and getting many laughs for his comedic lines, showing his talents not just in acting but in both tap dancing and instrumentally on the trumpet. His co-stars Elin Phillips in the role of Olga and Tobias Weatherburn as Luka shined as a double act who worked together to create the story and showed their talents both in music and acting. The both of them worked hard to create the atmosphere that allowed the jokes and moral of the story to flow through the performance.
The children were with the story every step of the way, and it was incredible to see the actors sit with the children before the show to engage and create a fun and warm atmosphere which connected all of the people in the room. Finishing the show with a singalong meant that everyone left the room in high spirits, and for the adults feeling connected to a childhood love of fairy tales and music in a wonderfully positive and engaging environment.
A wonderful show for the young and young at heart with a wonderful message ÔÇô we must all be able to laugh at ourselves!
10 out of 10!
by Hannah Stait