The Red Balloon

Black Swan Lab’s World Premiere of The Red Balloon, is based on the 1956 Albert Lamorisse short film of the same name, and has been adapted for the stage by Hilary Bell. Directed by Chrissie Parrott, it is a loving homage to the source material and is a gentle, tender piece that relies more on aesthetics than words.

Central character, young Pascal, played Opening Night by Dylan Christidas, (he shares the role with Rory McLaughlin and Jack O’Neill) lives in gloomy, rundown, post-war Paris. Costume and Set Designer, India Mehta has created a fluid Parisian set, that while being obviously theatrical, captures the spirit of the original locale.

Unlike the film, we meet a collection of anthropomorphic animals ‘living rough’ who add commentary, narration and comedy. Cat (Sarah Nelson), Rat (Ben Mortley) and Pigeon (Ella Hetherington) – all very likeable, are joined by audience favourite St John Crowther playing the adults in Pascal’s world, and all four act as puppeteers as the help manipulate the red balloon (almost a character in its own right) as it makes its journey.

Rounding out the cast is The Girl With the Blue Balloon – Eloise Hunter, who alternates with Katie Price. Both children delivered sweet, enthusiastic performances.

The creative team are allowed to shine in this very visual production. India Mehta’s set is vital to the action and integral to movement sequences, Trent Suidgeest’s often dark and shadowy lighting design gives ominous undertones while Ash Gibson Greig’s composition and sound design underscores the whole production, seemingly guiding the narrative and adding both warning and whimsy (with a jazz section being a highlight).

The opening night audience, which included many of the target audience (Under 12s), were spell-bound and clearly involved throughout. As suggested by Chrissie Parrott in her director’s notes, this is a perfect show for grandparents and children to enjoy together – but as a parent I suggest getting a seat too!

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Gary Marsh