Have you ever wondered what lurks behind the gates of a scrap yard? Some old tyres, a wheelie bin and maybe the odd rat or two, yet what about the people who work there? Bert and Horris introduce you to their colourful scrap yard and it’s more than just rats you will meet there.The story explodes with energy; Horris and Boris are calm and comfortable on stage and are instantly likeable. The two men are the perfect double act to lead us through the story; they have impeccable comic timing and natural charisma.
The show continues with the audience being introduced to Jack, a bin dweller that Horris and Boris stumble across in one of their many bins. The story focuses on Jack and his relationship with his father, told via object manipulation that proves a creative and an imaginative directorial choice.
The performance is littered with musical interludes which work well; the pop songs that were chosen were in keeping with the narrative and worked well in engaging the audience.A Long Road Home was genuinely funny, with comedic moments for both adults and children to enjoy. The set design was well thought out - for example, there was an amusing biscuit tin which was a simple prop but the way in which it was used was effective and clearly tickled the audience.
There were times that I thought the show suffered from some poor lighting. There was no way of blacking out the room so although the object manipulation was good it could have been so much more effective if the company had been able to use proper lighting. This company dealt well with what they were given and although at times the lighting and acoustics in the vast hall went against Saltmine they put one hundred per cent energy and feeling into their performance. It is a thoroughly enjoyable show, fun for all the family.
