As summer draws to a close, we packed up our deckchairs and went to see Riding Lights latest children’s theatre offering of Oscar Wilde’s The Selfish Giant…
Arriving to a stage shrouded in dust sheets, children were enlisted to help tidy up and we were soon welcomed into the Giant’s garden. The task at hand? Reminding a rather grumpy Smog how much fun it is to tell stories and learn a little about himself along the way.
In this two-hander, Jared More and Matthew Rutherford embody a host of fun and silly roles over fifty-five minutes. Both are engaging and enthusiastic throughout, and kept this audience’s attention span effortlessly. Whilst more suited to younger children perhaps, toddlers through to 11-year-olds at this performance were equally transfixed. No calls of ‘I’m bored’, tears or or restless shuffling.
More has boundless energy as the affable Miff, adding excitement and joy to the frantic Garden Games, which rely on audience participation. He later brings a quiet thoughtfulness to The Boy – puppeteered beautifully, and connecting well with younger members of the audience.
Rutherford perfectly portrays grumpy giant Smog, who normally revels in storytelling but becomes lost and needs help to discover his joy once more. Never scary of overbearing, these “snotty, grotty, picky-nosey, scratchy botty” kids loved him!
Accents and costumes change seamlessly, and we’re treated to a varied roster of characters. Our personal favourites were Daffy and Dill – sassy flowers who love a bit of gossip. And as for the floral puns? Blooming brilliant!
Like all good children’s theatre, the interaction is plentiful and all children were involved who wanted to be. From the get-go we were all invited to be part of the action – uncovering the set, planting windmill flowers and watering the emerging garden.
The aforementioned Garden Games offer even more onstage fun; often frantic but always well-managed. In a two-player game, a third child wandered onto the stage – a moment that would throw many less experienced performers. No issues here though – without missing a beat they made her head cheerleader from the sidelines!
This duo really shines by encouraging audience participation, without ever forcing it. Their own infectious enthusiasm and confidence creates a safe space for all ages to join in, without fear of looking silly or ever being the butt of the jokes.
Anna Gooch’s set and prop design inventively uses everyday objects to transform both the stage and characters. From a hatstand and stripped-down umbrellas for a tree, to the simple use of white dust sheets for snow and ice. A kazoo-wielding bee is a stroke of genius, and a firm audience favourite. What a buzz!
Director Paul Birch breathes new life into this Riding Lights revival – adding some beautifully poignant moments between the daft antics. There are many children’s theatre staples, including live music, bubbles, water pistols, and plenty of surprises. Patrick Burbridge’s original songs add to the joyful atmosphere.
At just under an hour this is the perfect length for pre-schoolers, and is advertised as especially suitable for ages 3-10 years. Our ten-year-old thoroughly enjoyed it, more than he expected to, and loved the interactive elements – even joining in on stage twice.
Theatre can create a divide between stage and audience, but not here…Riding Lights breaks downs barriers, and it would be Selfish not to let the eager children play!
The Selfish Giant is children’s theatre done right – equally captivating, engaging, colourful and thought provoking.
A tall tale, told well. Fee Fi Fo…FUN!
The Selfish Giant runs at Friargate Theatre in York until Saturday 5th September, and then embarks on a UK tour. How to book? It’s no tall order! Visit www.ridinglights.org/theselfishgiant
Tickets were kindly provided for this performance, however all opinions are honest and are our own.
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