Tröll

This gorgeous little show from Trick of the Light Theatre, New Zealand, played a short season as part of the Awesome Festival. Described as “a low-fi wi-fi fable”, this beautifully told story blends the terrors of trolls from the early days of dial-up internet, with the trolls of Icelandic mythology.

Set in 1998, twelve-year-old Otto lives with his parents, sister and chain-smoking Icelandic grandmother in an old house. As Otto explores Dark Ages chat forums, he meets online trolls, but they are no match for the frightening troll that lives in the wall. An expertly constructed blend of storytelling with projection and puppetry, it is a lovely use of technology to both tell and form the story, and a lovely exploration of myths through time.

Author Ralph McCubbin Howell plays central character Otto, beautifully capturing this child on the verge of manhood in a captivating performance. He is supported by co-director Hannah Smith, who not only operates much of the technology but plays the crucial role of Erika, whose beautiful monologue closes the show. The lovely voice of the elderly Amma is provided by Anya Tate-Manning and adds much to the performance.

The technology in this show is integral to its performance. Wonderful cohesion from sound designer/composer Tane Upjohn-Beatson, Lighting Designer Marcus McShane, Projection Designer Charley Draper and Puppet Designer Jon Coddington.

This gem of a show seems to appeal equally to older children and adults - a wonderful coming of age tale that blends old and new and nostalgia and excitement. Great fun with some great things to ponder.

Kimberley Shaw

Images: Tabitha Arthur Photography