Live Theatre Newcastle upon Tyne – until 22nd December 2024
Reviewed by Sandra Little
5*****
Blitzen on the Tyne was written by Danielle Slade in collaboration with pupils from three schools in the North East . This one hour performance describes itself as, “A wintry tales adventure for all the family,” and if you are looking for something different from the usual pantomime formula for children at this time of year, then this show could fit the bill.
The first characters we meet are Twinkletoes (Karen Traynor) and Head Elf ( Micky Cochrane) who are sorting presents ready for Santa to deliver. We then meet Blitzen ( also played by Karen Traynor) of Santa’s reindeer who is concerned about a lack of magic from the snow globe and encourages the audience to hug one another to create magic.
With the help of Blitzen, and some quite clever digital projections, we are transported toNewcastle where Blitzen meets a very grumpy Geordie pigeon called Jackie, ( also played by Micky Cochrane and a puppet). Jackie doesn’t believe in Christmas or magic. Classic Geordie fayre in the form of stottie and Gregg’s sausage rolls play their part in the story at this point.
As the story unfolds we learn of Jackie the pigeon’s difficulties in his past life and how this has impacted on his feelings. However, being as this is a Christmas story for young children, there is of course a happy ending and we are told that true magic is in your heart and comes from love, kindness and care and not a snow globe!
Although this wintry tale is by no means the most sophisticated performance you will ever witness it gained a warm response from a near full house who seemed to enjoy both the story and the audience participation that was included. The set is quite simple but good use is made of lighting and projections. Whilst costumes are by no means lavish, they are perfectly appropriate. The puppetry in the show is quite a novelty and adds a further dimension to the story. During the show we meet a puppet version of Jackie the pigeon and also Blitzen’s best friend Flake, a sparkly peach and white snow worm. Both puppets are voiced by Micky Cochrane.
If you are looking for a short piece of Christmas themed drama then Blitzen on the Tyne is definitely worth considering. With ticket prices of around £14, and £9 for children and concessions, Live Theatre is definitely offering good value for money.