Tall Stories’ adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's The Smed's and the Smoo's recently graced the stage at Z-ARTS in Manchester. Known for their successful adaptations of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom, Tall Stories continues their tradition of transforming beloved children’s literature into engaging stage productions. Directed by Toby Mitchell, this production adds a fresh chapter to their impressive roster of family-friendly theatre.
The tale follows Janet the Smed and Bill the Smoo, two young aliens from feuding families. Despite their families' disapproval, they embark on a space adventure to marry, leading their respective clans to join forces in a quest to find them. As they explore colourfull planets and encounter quirky characters, the story unfolds with a playful mix of comedy and heart. The narrative, while familiar, effectively communicates themes of acceptance and unity, making it a resonant tale for young audiences.
Barney George's set design captures the whimsical essence of space travel with its imaginative and accessible elements. The stage transforms into a variety of alien landscapes, enhanced by twinkling lights and a dynamic use of space that never overwhelms the young viewers. The well-thought-out set design ensures that even children experiencing theatre for the first time can engage with the show’s fantastical elements without distraction.
Yvonne Stone's puppet design is a highlight, bringing Scheffler’s distinctive illustrations to life with playful and intricate creations. From the quirky alien puppets to the memorable "baby Gruffalo"-like creatures, each puppet is crafted to charm and captivate. The costumes, while simple, are effective in distinguishing the Smed's from the Smoo's and facilitating quick changes among the four versatile actors.
Music by John Fiber and Andy Shaw adds to the production’s charm. Though not as memorable as the songs from Room on the Broom or The Gruffalo, the tunes are engaging and keep the energy of the show up. The standout is the final number, "Joy Jam and Jumping," which is particularly catchy and memorable, leaving a lasting impression.
The cast delivers an energetic and engaging performance. Felicia Akin-Tayo, as Janet the Smed, and Robert Penny, as Bill the Smoo, bring youthful enthusiasm and charm to their roles. Tom Capper and Andrea Sadler effectively support the main characters with their versatile portrayals of various creatures and elders. Their collective energy and ability to seamlessly switch roles enhance the storytelling and keep the audience thoroughly entertained.
The Smeds and the Smoos at Z-ARTS is a delightful experience that brings Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s story to life with warmth and creativity. The show, while not the most groundbreaking in Tall Stories’ lineup, stands out for its engaging puppetry, effective set design, and interactive elements that keep young viewers entertained. With its charming execution and a few standout moments, this production earns a solid four-star rating. It’s an excellent choice for a family outing, and if you’re in the Manchester area, catching it at the Lowry in October is definitely worth considering
The Smed's and the Smoo's has finished at Z-Arts Manchester now but you still have a chance to catch the show as it will be coming to the Lowry from 24th - 29th October 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show including where it will be touring to click the button below for Tall stories official website.
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