A Timeless Tale Reimagined: Pinocchio at the Globe
Pinocchio, the beloved story of a wooden puppet’s journey, has found a vibrant and insightful new home at the Globe theater. This isn’t simply a retelling of a classic; it’s a deeply imaginative exploration of what it truly means to be human, delivered with a playful energy that captivates from start to finish.
The production immediately establishes a delightfully chaotic atmosphere. A narrow-minded Italian town bursts to life with spirited, almost operatic cries of “mamma mia!” setting the stage for the whimsical adventure ahead. Geppetto, a misunderstood inventor, longs for connection and finds his chance with a remarkable piece of talking wood.
Though, Pinocchio isn’t content to be a fortune-winning puppet. He embarks on a journey fueled by curiosity and a boundless energy,beautifully portrayed by three skilled puppeteers - including Lee Braithwaite,who lends pinocchio a wonderfully expressive voice. This pinocchio doesn’t stumble into trouble through malice, but through an insatiable desire to understand the world around him, frequently interrupting profound questions with a simple, relatable plea: “I’m hungry!”
A Stellar Cast Brings the Story to Life
Sean Holmes’s direction is meticulous, allowing a 14-strong cast to fully embody the colorful characters Pinocchio encounters.
* Kerry Frampton and Lucy McCormick are delightfully villainous as the Fox and the Cat,expertly portraying their manipulative schemes.
* Steven Webb shines as Giacomo Cricket, delivering a wonderfully campy performance, and is genuinely terrifying as the Coachman.
* The ensemble’s choreography, crafted by Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu, is dynamic and engaging, complemented by soaring vocal harmonies.
Fortune’s musical score is a vibrant tapestry of genres, ranging from rock ‘n’ roll and ska to pop and blues.While the lyrics are witty and poignant, their rapid delivery can occasionally make them tough to fully grasp.
Beyond the surface: Exploring Humanity
This production cleverly leans into the inherent absurdity of Collodi’s original story - a chicken hatching from an egg feels perfectly logical within this world. It also brilliantly utilizes the Globe’s unique open-air structure, breaking the fourth wall with meta-theatrical moments that playfully engage the audience. A particularly memorable scene sees Pinocchio’s puppeteers duck for cover as he insists on moving independently.
However, the production’s greatest strength lies in its exploration of geppetto’s change. Nick Holder portrays Geppetto with both humor and heartfelt vulnerability, evolving from a somewhat anxious creator to a fully realized father figure. Ultimately, the play reminds you that human connection is the most defining aspect of our existence.
Pinocchio is playing at the Globe Theatre, London, until January 4th. This production is a must-see for families and anyone seeking a fresh,thought-provoking take on a timeless tale. It’s a festivity of curiosity,connection,and the beatiful messiness of becoming human.
