The Young King

The King, near the end of his life, summons the biological heir to his throne to the court. Many years before, the young man was kidnapped from his mother, the King’s daughter, after he banished her for marrying a poor woodland man. Eager to be of service, he adapts to the finery that the Kingdom and his soon to be new title will allow him.

From the moment the audience lines up, we are escorted to the elevator by one of the King’s servants; we are woods-folk and are treated as such. For the length of the elevator journey a recording plays, asking us to look inside ourselves and dream. Another manic, eager to please servant ushers us into a cupboard. Clearly excited about the young King’s coronation, she asks if you come bearing gifts and directs you accordingly. On arrival you are instructed to make your own crown and decorate it as you please.

Greeting the young King on entering his chamber and being seated, there's a sense of being part of something magical. A dimly lit performing space provides a mystical glow and is one of many occasions throughout the performance where lighting plays a pivotal role in the retelling of this tale.

Tim Overton as the Young King captures the right amount of innocence and charm. With a glint in his eye and the excitement of a young child, he tells you of his impending coronation and the splendour he has requested, in the form of costly silks and jewels. He is joined by the immensely talented Jaqy Phillips, who takes on several roles with aplomb. Her characterisation and attention to physical detail are breathtaking.

Director Andy Packer entices you into the fabric of the story. Playwright Nicki Bloom adapts enough of the original text by Oscar Wilde to give it authenticity. The creative team behind this production have as much to do with the retelling of this story as the dialogue that comes out of the actor’s mouths. Lighting designer Geoff Cobham and designer Wendy Todd create an atmosphere that is resplendent. Musical director and musician Quincy Grant is at his finest and composes a soundtrack that magnifies emotions.

Telling the story with words, shadow play and clever use of torches makes this a special event. With surprises that keep coming, I watched, as wide-eyed as the young man that sat beside me. Enchanting and whimsical, this tale teaches us to look outside ourselves to consider others and be true to ourself.

It is only fitting that this production be set in the original location of Dazzleland; a place that brought joy to so many. I can’t speak highly enough of the production values and the duo entrusted to tell this story. It was truly a memorable theatre experience for young and old.

Kerry Cooper

Photographer: Andy Ellis