Meet Chris, a 54-year-old artist financially trapped in the house where he grew up. His garden shed has become his new studio; a magical place where he's been resident throughout Lockdown - creating kinetic works of art from the toys of his childhood. Some artworks have made it to galleries and installations, and others are revealed here for the first timeEnjoy the ride as Chris bursts forth from the shed to the stage, sharing the stories from his "real-life Scalextric" events to a model installation of former PM (BJ) astride a double-decker bus! His exploration of the absurdities of modern living through his art is interwoven with a real-life quest to Poland to uncover secrets about his extraordinary family heritage. TOY STORIES sees Chris dig up some metaphorical ghosts of the past, as well as a real German tank dating from the Second World War, and reminds us how little has changed in populist politics between then and now. Part stand-up comedy, part performance lecture, TOY STORIES takes the audience on an irreverent, powerful and hilarious storytelling adventure through art, contemporary politics, twentieth-century history and ...toys!REVIEWS OF PAST WORK ("Antarctica" and "All Roads Lead to Rome"): "Live art in all its glory" (Three Weeks, Edinburgh) "Takes us from the personal to the political, across a great swathe of 20th Century history" (The Scotsman) "An hour of brilliantly charismatic storytelling" (Broadway Baby)

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now