New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme – until 25 January 2020
Reviewed by Joanne Hodge
5*****
Theresa Heskins has adapted this classic Mark Twain tale for the Christmas season at The New Vic, and I have to say it’s a triumph for an audience of all ages.
The New Vic Workshop – under the guidance and design expertise of Laura Willstead – have very cleverly re-created Tudor London inside the confines of this theatre-in-the-round, and though the backdrop of lit houses are small in size, they are great in impact. A moving representation of the Thames was very cleverly wound across the stage by a cast full of multi-talented actors, musicians and puppeteers. You’d struggle to find a more hardworking ensemble.
Laura’s creative genius was again put to use with the inclusion of puppets to represent the younger years of the two lead characters, along with the various animals found regularly in street entertainment of the time.
I have to say, I mustn’t have studied the programme in great detail prior to curtain-up, as I was genuinely baffled and bemused when Bird twins Danielle [Edward – “The Prince”] and Nichole [Tom – The Pauper] appeared on stage for the first time together – I turned to my companion to query if it were some very clever CGI! These identical twin sisters have been cast perfectly in the title partnership. The comedic characterisation was some of the finest I’ve seen, you ended up rating for both of these ‘boys’, even through their less likeable moments.
I enjoyed the unique narration of the story – being played out by a travelling theatre group of the time – it gave a fresh take on a classic tale.
As the show began, I thought that it may have been pitched incorrectly as a family Christmas production, but once warmed into the story, there were many laughs to be had, and the wide-ranging audience all seemed to enjoy the clever – and the sometimes downright cheesy – comedy moments. Particular mention must go to Player Queen Gareth Cassidy, who literally jumped from his Beefeater role to that of Floating Mary [watch it, you’ll get the joke ;o)] with camp aplomb.
I don’t want to give too much away, as I really recommend that if able, you go and see the show yourself. The Prince and The Pauper is a great way to spend a couple of hours, and you’ll leave feeling genuinely Christmassy, and ready to enjoy a mince pie and mulled wine.