George’s Marvellous Medicine had the children in the audience bemused at some points and enthralled at others. The show itself had many small problems, but ultimately the energy, enthusiasm and talent of the cast meant that these hiccups can be largely ignored.
Throughout the piece the tech had many small, irritating flaws. Sometimes the sound effects were too loud, sometimes too quiet and sometimes just too late. Lines were also an issue and all the cast were guilty of rushing horrifically at certain points. Some of the scenes which stepped outside the main storyline - George imagining Grandma as a witch for example - felt overextended and empty of dramatic excitement.
However there is also much to praise in this production. Robin Morton is a wonderful George, he brims with childish glee and energy, engaging the audience and involving them in the story. Laura Ayres is also impressive as George’s mother, providing the production with a relatable and sound rational base. At times the production felt a little like a pantomime with the audience encouraged to shout out suggestions. It could have gone horribly wrong. The show moved from storytelling to physical theatre, and then to puppetry. These continual changes were incredibly beneficial for the show, upping the energy, and providing the actors a great chance to involve the audience.
Ultimately, George’s Marvellous medicine is an enjoyable and sweet dramatic piece. Although there are small problems, it is still a great show for children.
