And so our heroes spirits were sinking, like a child in a swimming pool. If you think thats funny, youll love this show. On paper, it sounds like a bad attempt at a modern anti-fairytale, but in reality 'The Animals of Butter Bridge' is an hours worth of surreal and unharnessed fun. The fox has eloped with the rabbit, and the panther, mouse and badger set off to rescue the poor bunny before it is too late for her. However, each of them have their own secret agenda, and theres a wolf on the loose and hes hungry. Amid epidemics of myxomatosis and TB, the animals struggle to do the right thing, complete their objectives and survive, resulting initially in hilarity, and ultimately tragedy. Prepare to leave behind all concepts of making sense or what you think theatre for adults should be, and just relax and enjoy. If youre looking for thought provoking, classic theatre, dont go and see this show. This is not for the Shakespeare or even Moliere lover within you, its for the childish jokes and crazy make believe that you secretly still crave. Although occasionally the madness can go a little too far the play essentially addresses the conundrum that is love, belonging and balancing out conflicting desires. The costumes are superbly put together and whilst being made of normal bipedal clothing, somehow manage to perfectly represent the animal of the character. The narrative voice over is superbly used to illustrate the story but never over used. The naturally flowing script always sounds spontaneous, and the simple set represents the surroundings perfectly. The comic timing of all performers is immaculate, and the characteristics used to portray the different creatures are very clever and fascinating to watch. The intelligent direction can be recognised in the excellent use of space, with actors emerging from the audience and rivers being represented simply by body language. And to add to all of this there is a wonderful, original soundtrack which complements the show perfectly. All in all, if you have an hour to spare, and an open mind, this show is well worth your while and will leave you light hearted for days.
