In the perfect setting of the Scottish Storytelling Centre, sixty or so children of varying ages and sizes sat enraptured by the accomplished storytelling and puppetry of the Theatre of Widdershins. Not only funny, not only highly inventive, not only a bright and original story - one with which I was unfamiliar - but by far the most imaginative, creative use of staging in Edinburgh. Amazed little faces watched enthralled as each scene brilliantly and cleverly transformed into another. Though complex and detailed, the plot is delivered with clarity and care by a performer who clearly knows how to work his audience - starting slightly tentatively but gaining confidence and momentum as the show proceeded.Andy Lawrence, the sole performer of this delightful piece, conducts his audience with consummate skill, slowly and considerately delivering his gentle tale. Each scene of the story allowed him to offer up yet another inventive and intriguing character or device, much to the uncontained delight of the audience. He even finds time to put the puppets aside with some inventive audience participation, indulging in a hilarious piece of brain surgery - thrills and coos as strange objects are drawn out from the patients head. In world full of brand names, mass marketing and corporate middle ground children's entertainment, it’s a rare thrill to meet a children's performer who takes as much care and effort and his work as Andy Lawrence. It's a show riddled with surprises, humour and some excellent puppet work. The love and care he takes in the creation of his work is inspiring, and is well-rewarded by the attention given it by the audience. And there's certainly enough here to keep any child diverted. A happy, gentle and loving show well worth a visit by children of all ages!
