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★★★★★
Space is the theme of Half a String’s newest show Tiny Planet which is currently at Pleasance Dome as part of the Edinburgh Fringe. Taking inspiration from The Little Prince and centring on an intergalactic Space Baker called Alma, this show sees the character crash land on a planet which can be explored in merely footsteps. Impressively intricate, creative in its form and also highly amusing, Tiny Planet is a spectacular piece of theatre that will wow all generations, from children to parents and grandparents in equal measure.
Atmospheric visual design
The narrative for this piece is relatively straightforward, but it is the way that the company brings the story to life which makes it so dynamic and exciting. There is an underlying theme of appreciating the little things and nature’s wonders, and through inspired camera work, the audience has the opportunity to see the events from Alma’s perspective and also appreciate the details of this truly remarkable little planet. The company has thought of everything, from colourful branding for the Space Bakery to the textures of nearby planets and evolving wildlife on the tiny planet itself, creatively toying with scale and telling this story in such an inventive way.
Cast performances
Tiny Planet has an electric and ambient score by Avi Simmons and Suitman Jungle which fuses folk music with big 90s synth. Musician Darcey O’Rourke brings this to life with so much energy and charisma, inspiring audience members of all ages. Puppeteers Emily Essery and Peter Morton additionally bring so much personality to Alma, her space gadgets, the wildlife and other planets in this galaxy, animating each of the puppets in such an engaging and fluid way.
Breathtaking visual theatre
It goes without saying that Half a String creates truly magical theatre. I was in awe at their beautiful puppetry creations and I was transfixed by the space-themed visual imagery. Tiny Planet is a brilliant family-friendly piece of theatre that has the power to spark imaginations and remind audiences why they first became enamoured with the creativity of the arts. You can catch Tiny Planet at King Dome at Pleasance Dome (venue 23) until 23rd August. Performances start daily at 12:25, with tickets available via the festival’s website.
*My ticket for Tiny Planet was gifted in exchange for an unbiased review.
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