Engaging tale about two strangers who connect over the stories they tell each other. A short but perfectly formed feel-good festive treat. Rating
Excellent!
Not keen on the usual chaotic and bawdy Christmas theatrical fare? Looking for something calm but still enchanting? Best head over to The Lost Library of Leake Street then, if you can find it, of course. (You can by the way, it’s easy, it’s at The Glitch).
Ronay Poole as accidental browser, Isla Greenwood and Malcolm Jeffries as reluctant librarian, Maximilian Crimp both do sterling work setting the scene, creating atmosphere, and morphing into different characters. Poole in particular captured the persona and mannerisms of an eight-year-old, a teenager, and an adult convincingly and seamlessly without additional props or costume change. The two work well together and, under Oli Savage’s direction, make excellent use of the space available, negotiating columns, desks, and chairs without (much) mishap, thus making what could be a fairly static storytelling into something with a bit more action.
The snug performance space at The Glitch is even cosier than usual with rugs, chandeliers, and an eclectic mix of interesting-looking objects on display. The typewriters, juggling balls, sparkling Stetson, kitchen gadgets – the list goes on – all have one thing in common. They each have a unique story attached to them, and we get to hear three of those tales. The first is a fable style with a predictable happy ending. Interesting and enjoyable, but nothing too out of the ordinary. However, the remaining two are much more engaging. Being personally connected to Max and Isla, they are considerably more emotional with happy beginnings rather than happy endings. Unfortunately, I was sitting with the list of former and current Librarians in my direct line of sight, so I had already anticipated one of the tales, but it did not detract from the telling, though. As pointed out, narratives cannot always be ‘sunshine and rainbows’ all of the time, but there is usually something positive to find, as in this case, with an uplifting and hopeful outcome for both characters.
Only an hour long, the performance paradoxically felt both shorter and longer. Shorter because the time went very quickly, as it always seems to when enjoying yourself, and longer because so much was packed in. History of the Library, character development, and great storytelling, of course, but it also showcases the importance of stories, real or imaginary, and how they allow people to connect with each other. The importance of keeping tales alive, in whatever format, is clear.
Yes, there are some sad moments, but there are also moments of humour and joy. Altogether an excellent festive feel-good outing. I think I sense another Christmas tradition in the making.
Written, Directed & Designed by: Oli Savage
Produced by: Eleanor Shaw
The Lost Library of Leake Street plays until Monday 22 December
