Awful Auntie, UK Tour (2014) Review

Reviews

12 Jul

Written by Stacy for Theatre and Tonic.

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

The place is the Darlington Hippodrome, its a Thursday matinee on a drizzly July afternoon in the throes of a typical British summer. Yet this auditorium is alive with the frenzied excitement of school children eagerly anticipating the start of what promises to be a spectacular show.

Adapted from David Walliam's popular children's book, the play captures the whimsy and excitement that has made his work a favourite among young readers. The story follows Stella Saxby, a young girl who finds herself at the mercy of her horrid Aunt Alberta, after a mysterious accident leaves her orphaned and at risk of losing her family's estate. What follows is a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase filled with quirky characters, clever plot twists, and a healthy dose of slapstick comedy.

Director Neal Foster, known for his work with the Birmingham Stage Company, has adeptly translated the book's essence to the stage. His direction ensured a fast-paced and engaging performance that kept the young audience on the edge of their seats. The use of physical comedy, and visual gags played a particularly effective role in the piece, drawing consistent laughter and the toilet humour certainly went down well with this audience, that's for sure.

The cast brings Walliams' vibrant characters to life with infectious energy. Stella played by Annie Cordoni is effortlessly compelling, balancing vulnerability and courage with finesse. Aunt Alberta, played with gusto by Foster is both menacing and ridiculously over-the-top, providing much of the play’s humour and tension. The owl Wagner, a key character in the story, is impressively animated by Emily Essery, adding a magical touch to the production. The resident ghost Soot (Matthew Allen) was a right 'giraffe' and the perfect sidekick to Cordini's Stella, together they created an endearing platonic chemistry on stage as they brought the quirky narrative to life. I particularly enjoyed the moments of comic relief that weaved their way through the piece from the character Gibbon (Zain Abrahams), his zany, forgetful, clumsiness added humour and delight to the piece.

Now let's talk about the set. This set design was nothing short of spectacular and a character entirely in itself. The rotating elements and innovative use of space created an immersive experience, transporting the audience from the eerie Saxby Hall to the wild countryside with ease. The attention to detail in the costumes and props further enriched the visual spectacle, staying true to the book’s whimsical illustrations and elevating the piece entirely.

At its core, this is a tale of resilience and friendship. Themes of bravery, the importance of family, and standing up to bullies resonate strongly throughout the play. Walliams' trademark blend of dark humour and heartfelt moments shines through, making this a poignant experience for our young viewers to enjoy. It successfully captures the spirit of David Walliams' book, delivering a performance that is both entertaining and meaningful. With its talented cast, inventive set design, and engaging direction, the play is a testament to the magic of live theatre. Whether you are a fan of Walliams' work or new to his stories, "Awful Auntie" is a must-see production that promises to leave a lasting impression.

At Darlington Hippodrome until 14 July as part of a wider UK tour until November 2024.