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Dive into a whimsical adventure with Lucy and the Creakers, where imagination knows no bounds!Summary
Rating
Good
The Creakers, based on the book by musician and author Tom Fletcher, centres around Lucy and the children of Whiffington, who wake up one day to find that all the adults have mysteriously vanished. This unexpected turn of events leads them into a strange and topsy-turvy world that lies beneath Lucy’s bed – the land of the Creakers. Fuelled by their curiosity and determination, the children embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the grown-ups. The production takes some time to find its rhythm, although it ultimately unfolds into a captivating narrative.
Eloise Davies shines in her role as Lucy, effortlessly capturing her character’s shyness yet fierce determination. Davies showcases an impressive vocal range, embodying the essence of childhood mischief, and her singing truly captivated the audience. (And yes, sharing the character’s name adds a personal touch to my enjoyment!). Iona Fraser playing Ella never fails to bring impeccable comedic timing to the stage, injecting plenty of laughter into the show. However, some of the lyrics proved challenging to hear, potentially leaving newcomers a bit confused. I had also anticipated catchier lyricism from Fletcher, but the music, while pleasant, doesn’t quite reach the memorable heights I had hoped for.
One of the standout features of the show is its impressive set design, particularly notable for its eco-conscious approach. The programme reveals that the materials used are recycled, using delivery boxes for the houses and bottle ends for the sun. Set designer Andrew Exeter, has clearly put considerable thought into the environmental impact of the production, aligning seamlessly with the storyline of the Creakers, who thrive on the town’s waste. Lucy’s house serves as a mobile centrepiece on stage, rotating to facilitate smooth scene changes.
Ryan Dawson Laight’s costume designs are additionally commendable, enhancing the visual appeal of the characters and adding to the charm of the overall production. The colourful character costumes are slightly exaggerated; a comedic feature that works very well for a young audience.
The puppets used in the show definitely add a hint of spookiness, yet they are designed thoughtfully by Lyndie Wright to be just menacing enough without frightening the younger viewers. This balance evokes a playful yet slightly eerie atmosphere reminiscent of a blend between Labyrinth and The Muppet Show.
After the performance, I had the pleasure of speaking with a family whose children, aged 8 and 10, expressed their enjoyment of the show and their eagerness to see it again. It’s a testament to the production’s ability to resonate with its target audience.
While there is room for growth as a musical masterpiece, the charm and creativity of The Creakers still make it an enjoyable experience for audiences of all ages. It offers a delightful journey for families, filled with whimsical adventures and life lessons.
Adapted by: Miranda Larson
Music and lyrics by: Tom Fletcher
Directed and choreographed by: Tom Jackson Greaves
Set design by: Andrew Exeter
Costume design by: Ryan Dawson Laight
Puppet design by: Lyndie Wright
This show’s run is now completed.
