The Barn theatre, Cirencester – until 4th May 2019
Reviewed by Alexandra Sykes
5*****
Based on the book of the same name by Michael Morpurgo, The Butterfly Lion is a story within a story. After running away from school Michael (Jasper William Cartwright) meets Millie (Hilary Harwood) she tells him the story of Bertie and the white lion who went on to become the butterfly lion. Set in various locations such as Wiltshire, South Africa and France, the story draws the audience in and leaving them wanting more.
With only 6 cast members it is a small production but it works well. Cartwright not only plays the role of school boy Michael but also Bertie Andrews in Millie’s story. The ensemble cast of Jeremy Cobb, Henry Douthwaite and Abigail Matthews are wonderful in their roles as Bertie’s parents, Merlot and various members of the British army. Jonathan Charles is a fantastic puppeteer operating the lion, making sure attention is on the lion and not on him. The lion puppet is possibly one of the best puppets ever made, with three puppets being used in the show: a lion cub, a slightly bigger cub and a fully grown lion.
The set is simple, with a raised area in the middle which is used as Millie’s kitchen, Bertie’s family kitchen and living room in South Africa and No Man’s land in World War 1. The costumes are also simple as cast members need to change quickly. Although it is simple the audience does not get characters confused and the scenery changes are helpful in telling the story.
The show is family friendly and has many funny moments, as is typical of Murpurgo’s work and the small theatre space works well for telling such a lovely story that both young and old will enjoy.