A scattering of cardboard boxes, newspaper and plastic bags greet the audience on stage. A small puppet of an old man emerged to the sound of harmonica music. For the next 50 minutes a rapt congregation follows his escapades amongst the rubbish of his home sweet home with intense attention.Endearing, strangely moving and often funny this is a show which is almost impossible to fault. The puppeteering was seamless and, although the puppeteers were clearly visible, they seem to disappear and become part of the old man's landscape. The musical accompaniment: harmonica, mandolin and accordion, set the mood perfectly.As the play develops we follow the old man as he travels smoothly through locations from home to the sea to a grassy beach. Although there are no words the narrative is clear and fascinating. The plot centres around the ideas of home and belonging, and the lack of dialogue gives a great scope for personal interpretation.Although easily suitable for children, I would recommend this charming production for any audience. Even if you are skeptical about puppet shows, go and see this play. It is a touching, funny and thoroughly slick production which will leave you feeling much better about yourself than when you came in.
