The Wolf Has No Teeth

The Wolf Has No Teeth was first presented by WA Children’s Theatre at YouthFest in 2016. I was very excited to be able to review this reincarnation at FringeWorld and was keen to see development and growth.

There were some major issues with this production and venue that were beyond the control of these young performers. The Lunar Big Top has a flat stage and minimal audience rake and the very diminutive performers, often sitting on the floor, were difficult to see. This problem was compounded by people moving (because they couldn’t see), children being passed down rows and proud mamas filming on iPads. It was also difficult to hear, as little, un-miked voices competed with a more than usually noisy matinee audience, an overworked air-conditioner and noise pollution from the Pleasure Garden outside. The audience were missing whole sections of dialogue and a few people made an early exit.

This is a sweet little show with a lovely message about overcoming anxiety. Central character Prince Tom, was ably tackled by Jack Percy, in a very promising performance, He was well supported by other members of the ‘royal family’, sisters Ruby Kennington and Jorja Knowles, mother - a confident Nick Cohen in drag, father a smooth voiced Joe Kennington and Sir Whiskers, nicely portrayed by DeriAnne Mak.

Annika Mak nicely portrayed Young Red Riding Hood, nicely matched by older self, played by Amelia Lawrence. Ayra Palande had charm as an unfortunately named jailer. Standouts were Hayley Loiacono as Tom’s supportive best friend Sally and Ella Hagon in the titular role - a wolf who wants to “build a wall to keep the rabbits out”, but who is actually very nice.

A very enthusiastic ensemble added colour and energy.

The programme notes state that they “don’t strive for perfection - we aim to have fun”, but for a public performance, I would have liked to see a little more polish. Not all in the audience were loyal friends and family, and they left disappointed.

Congratulations to all the young performers. Keep up the hard work and I look forward to seeing you in productions in the future.

Kimberley Shaw