Review: Krafty the Urban Fox, Little Angel Theatre

It’s an early Saturday morning start for this reviewer, and it certainly feels like the dawn is not far behind me as I arrive at the Little Angel Theatre’s studio space for Samantha Lane’s new play, Krafty the Urban fox – Tales From the Tower Block, aimed at ages 2-5.

Inside the studio, night has not yet crept away. The sky is a beautiful cobalt blue and bright windows in the apartment block set tell us that people are still in their homes: there’s a definite hint of Sherry Coenen wizardry in the lighting design. A whistling tune heralds the arrival of Frank the Milkman, today performed by Elliott Bornemann who alternates the role with Clarke Joseph-Edwards. He warmly greets the children and explains why this is his favourite time of the day.

The show that follows is then also as clear as the night sky, neatly structured into episodes, where the charismatic Bornemann introduces us to a series of creatures that are usually nocturnal. He’s a wonderful storyteller, with a steadily paced delivery that encourages the audience to take time to consider the many things around them. Lane’s writing is crisp and sensory, with evocative descriptions of the sights, scents, sounds and even silence of the early morning. It beautifully sets the scene in which we are to meet the animals of the estate.

Designed by Oliver Hymans and made by Alison Alexander, the puppets are – refreshingly – not all cutesy and overly anthropomorphic, but are nonetheless enchantingly appealing and wide-eyed, telling of the characteristics of the real creatures they represent, through their carefully chosen materials and distinctive movements. Initially, Krafty the fox sets about mischievously investigating the bins, which has the young audience laughing hysterically. It’s a guessing game as to what’s going to emerge next on his long, red snout, only to be tossed unceremoniously to the floor for Frank to pick up and put back in the bin. Krafty is joined by Whiskers the cat, Hoot the owl, Spike the hedgehog and Bertie the bat, who are all given their own moment to shine humorously: there’s even a full on spotlight moment for the fluttering Bertie! Bornemann does an excellent job of puppeteering, giving playful and clear-cut characterisation to each creature, which is perfect for the young age group to learn about them without difficulty.

Supporting the characterisation is a fabulous soundtrack, composed by Dominic Sales. Signature tunes for each animal help round out their personalities, with the bespoke music exploring everything from jazz to classical features. Given the perfectly matched bespoke themes, the only thing that then feels a little grafted into the show is an interactive singalong of ‘Wind the Bobbin’ which, although fun within the script, shifts the overall style a little uncomfortably.

Krafty the Urban Fox is a really enjoyable production that encourages us to consider our own behaviours; certainly to be open to finding beauty where it’s not expected, which may even be amongst the bins and refuse sacks of our own urban environment, shared with unseen friends. Today, the audience were captivated by the show throughout, laughing along and happily embracing the spirit of “Let’s see”, before warmly applauding come the end. As I left the theatre an audience member was heard to say, “Wasn’t that a delight – as always!” And I have to agree.

Performed in alternating performances by Elliott Bornemann and Clarke Joseph-Edwards

Written & Directed by Samantha Lane
Directing Assistant Katherine Haw
Puppets Designed by Oliver Hymans
Puppets Made by Alison Alexander
Lighting Designed by Sherry Coenen
Composed by Dominic Sales

Krafty the Urban Fox – Tales From the Tower Block runs at Little Angel Theatre Studio until Sunday 27 July