The Big Bad Wolf

The Big Bad Wolf had to have been one of the sweetest parts of the Awesome Festival. Written by Matthew Whittet, this awesomely cute modern fairy tale was a joy for kids, while still having plenty of appeal for their adult companions.

The Big Bad Wolf really isn’t bad at all, but the people of Alarmsvile fear him all the same, and he is terribly, overwhelmingly lonely. When he meets diminutive, dynamic, seemingly indomitable over-achiever Heidi Hood, it seems an impossible pairing, but they form an unlikely alliance.

Excellent performances from the trio of performers. Patrick Graham is a very loveable wolf, Emma J. Hawkins is an outstanding Heidi, while Ellen Steele plays a plethora of supporting roles in a high energy, quick-change extravaganza.

A fabulous looking show, with gorgeous picture-book design by Jonathan Oxlade and excellent lighting by Chris Petridis. The physical performances are stunning thanks to movement by Carol Wellman Kelly with some gorgeous dance work and wonderful surprises. Harry Covill’s bright and clever sound design also contains lots of little surprise elements.

Although most noticeably a charming story, this story also contains a heap of teaching elements and wonderful messages, including the importance of friendship, not judging a book by its cover and remaining true to yourself.

This beautiful bite-size piece of theatre was a true treat.

Kimberley Shaw