The Story Forge: Make Your Own Myth, Rubbish Shakespeare Company Review
Written by Joseph for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
As I sat down in the Barber studio at Leeds Playhouse with my 9 year old nephew James, we had no idea what to expect, but it turns out, neither did the company.
The Rubbish Shakespeare Company’s performance of The Story Forge: Make Your Own Myth was a magical journey through time, rocketing us through real myths and legends like Thor: God of Thunder, Ares: God of War, and…Hester: Queen of Chants?
If you’re not familiar with that last one, it’s because it was just for us and our audience. The British Museum Professors Lee Hithersay and Robert Rhys Bond are there to help us create 3 brand new myths. All generated from the minds, pockets and people of the audience.
What followed was a quest of mythical proportions, with both cast (and of course beautiful music from Dan) using what we intrepid audience members and I have to say, it was brilliant. Hilarious throughout, not only for the kids who were entranced, but also the adults were laughing in a way that is rare for kids’ shows. It wasn’t an innuendo, it was real jokes for the adults that the kids wouldn’t get. Who knew a Las Ketchup reference would be hilarious in 2025?
Having to manage an army of real kids wanting to be involved in all of it, I think they did brilliantly in including everyone and it felt like an experience tailored just to us, which is the real magic of course.
When we left I asked my nephew James what he thought, and he said “I want to see that again” which I can tell you is the highest compliment he could give.
This truly is the perfect show to go to as a family, educational but also as far from boring as you can be. Go and see what myths you can be a part of, and who knows, maybe you will become the hero yourself?
On a UK tour until 11 October 2025, find further information on The Rubbish Shakespeare Company website.
★★★★★
