Pinocchio - A New Musical

The Globe Theatre

There's something special about this show; it grabs you and pulls on your heartstrings. This musical has the foundations to become something incredible. Protect Pinocchio at all costs.

A musical all about a wooden puppet being put on at the Globe feels very fitting. There is something magical about being at the Globe watching this show, which is all about miracles and dreams, whilst sitting under the stars, wrapped up warm with a mulled wine in hand. This show is wholesome and family-friendly, it gets the children involved and has a selection of hilarious moments for adults, something for all ages. This show is different. The puppetry is vibrant, enchanting and fun. So many clever uses of props, costumes and scenery. It gets the audience thinking and feeling. It's perfect for the Globe setting, a great contrast with the wooden puppets and the theatre's wooden beams. There's also a mixed bag of multi-skilled actors in the show, which brings something very different. The puppetry is high-level, and the actors who bring them to life make the show enlightening and bright.

What an interesting cast! Pinocchio is voiced and led by Lee Braithwaite. He brings to life the character's wonder and naivety. You are drawn to both the puppet and the actor, which is interesting, as you usually focus on just the puppet. Braithwaite adds facial expression and reaction, which creates the idea of Pinocchio being a magical entity. This adds to the wonder and whimsy of the show. The ensemble brings a mix of classical and musical theatre to the style of the show. Which makes you think of the idea of 'Tradition', which is talked about in the show and challenging these traditions. They embody different characters to create the town's people, and some moments have energy and vibrance, whilst there are some stiff moments. This could also show how they are held back by the idea of tradition, and the moments with high energy are these breaks from the procedure. Steven Webb plays two completely different characters in this show, and each time he takes the stage, he snatches the audience's attention. He is such a brilliant actor, with an abundance of energy and creativity. He plays the charismatic Giacomo Cricket and the creepy coachman. The two characters he sets completely apart and gives two astounding performances. You miss him when he isn't a part of other scenes.

A main element of the show is the puppetry and the cast's interaction with the setting around them. Peter O'Rourke is the Puppetry Director and Designer. What a vision that has come to life. The way Pinocchio is whittled to life from magical wood is miraculous. As soon as the wood that is made into Pinocchio is plonked on the stage, it is clear that the world around the characters is about to be taken on a journey that will change the order of their lives forever. The audience is taken on this adventure of exploration and feels the wonder that the main character experiences. The set changes in many ways into different areas, rooms and ideas. The set has many layers and textures, and it keeps the children entertained and astounded. It's a couple of hours of creative theatre and joy for the whole audience.

Fancy something a little different this festive season? Then, go along to see this marvellous piece of theatre. This new musical has had a great beginning, and it will go far! It's special because it is so different and wholesome. You experience a range of emotions that catch you unexpectedly. This show is being carved into something beautiful. When you watch the audience around you, of all ages, getting involved and reacting, it fills you with a warm feeling, and it's the best time of the year for this show. Get wrapped up warm and don't miss out on this one.