Roald Dahl’s The Twits // Weekend Notes
Review by Rhiannon B
“Don’t miss this high energy interpretation of The Twits.”
The monstrous, disgusting and downright terrifying Mr and Mrs Twit have been brought to the stage by Spare Parts Puppet Theatre (SPPT). The production has been adapted from Roald Dahl’s 1980 book, which is enthralling readers today as much as it did 37 years ago.
Performers Jessica Harlond-Kenny and Geordie Crawley hold the audience for the entire production, moving effortlessly between the dastardly couple in question, the imprisoned but wily Muggle-Wump and the magnificent Roly-Poly Bird. Their physical mastery of each character is mesmerising.
SPPT’ genius lies in their ability to say so much with so little and this performance demonstrates how they do this so well, while also bringing a fresh perspective.
This is a high energy show incorporating more dialogue than I’ve experienced in other SPPT productions. It’s spot on though, with enough topical comedy to keep both adults and kids amused from start to finish while still delivering the traditional SPPT experience. Although billed as suitable from age 5, my personal recommendation on this one is a slightly older age.
I have to admit, I was terrified of The Twits when I read it as a child – the stilton cheese and cornflake in beard scenario still haunts me! Thankfully, this interpretation has given me a new-found perspective on this tale. After all, it boasts one of the most quoted phrases of any Roald Dahl book: “…if you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.”
This production kicks off a stellar year for the theatre company, so stay tuned!
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Roald Dahl’s The Twits // World Premiere
DATE: 8 – 27 January
VENUE: 1 Short Street, Fremantle
BOOK TICKETS online or call 9335 5044
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