Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
The Scarecrows' Wedding Reader's Review
The Scarecrows' Wedding
This adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s most recent work, ‘The Scarecrows’ Wedding’ captured beautifully the pastoral tone of the original tale. Scamp theatre have added a delightful extra folksy element by incorporating a mixture of live songs and recorded music using banjo, accordion, guitar and penny whistle, played by the performers. The songs were an intrinsic and very enjoyable part of the show.
Whilst sticking closely to the tale, the performance easily filled an hour with super use of movement and dance, fully using the creative but simple scenery. The only point at which my 5 year old companion wriggled was the point where the snail was exasperatingly slow; we all felt Harry O’Hay’s frustration at the snail’s lack of haste in an urgent situation! Imaginative use of appropriately vintage costumes and props made for a visual delight. Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay were thoroughly likeable whilst Reginald Rake was suitably rakish and amusing. There was a captivating sentiment and subtlety of emotion conveyed by the actors which made the performance even more enjoyable for older members of the audience. All 3 cast members were vibrant and very entertaining to watch. This was a quality performance and highly recommended. The writer would suggest that it may be more suitable for 4 years and up unless the child was already very familiar with the story. Quotes from 5 year old audience members included “ I liked when the farmer made the new scarecrow. He was funny.” “It was good. I liked when the scarecrow went on fire.”
Reviewed by Catherine Estill 10 August