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Grandad and Me

 
James Beagon Review by James Beagon 4 Published: 13 Aug 2015 Summerhall Show Dates: 8 Aug 2015-23 Aug 2015

The Letter J’s production of Grandad and Me is simple, moving and effective. Accessible to younger children, it deals gently with themes of loss and memory. A young girl misses her recently deceased grandfather and, with the help of a friendly mouse, revisits the times and experiences they had together.

Grandad and Me is a pleasant and relaxing piece of theatre, well-suited to those wishing for a gentle introduction for their children to theatre or a pit-stop just before lunch.

Judith Williams, Jon Bishop and Ruth Jannsen form a wonderful trio, musically transporting us on this adventure. The protagonist does not speak; instead, it’s left to the two musicians to use the words. They mainly rely on lyrics but occasionally diverge from this: a nonsensical version of the shipping forecast is used to great effect. Movement is also the main language of the piece. It’s clear what is happening every step of the way. The play never attempts to over-complicate its message or story.

It’s possible that slightly older children might get a bit restless. The overall feeling of the play is very calm and placid, and might not excite some, though one moment involving a rocket ship and a colander is a nice break in pace. The set is beautiful, as is the projection used throughout the show although, to me, some of it seemed a little out-of-focus.

Grandad and Me is a pleasant and relaxing piece of theatre, well-suited to those wishing for a gentle introduction for their children to theatre or a pit-stop just before lunch.

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Grandad and Me is a living storybook about loss, longing and the treasures of memory and imagination. We meet a young girl who is missing her grandad – he has gone, even though his favourite job was being her grandad. Led by found objects and her imagination, she traces his footsteps on a magical adventure through time and space. ‘A luscious-looking and tremendously moving show from the new Glasgow-based company The Letter J’ **** (Scotsman). ‘Gorgeously detailed and nostalgic set, wonderful live music and beautifully simple projected animation’ **** (Herald). **** (EdinburghGuide.com). **** (Times). www.madeinscotlandshowcase.com