Review: LITTLE RED, Eastern Angles Theatre Company – Online

Photo credit: Mike Kwasniak

Think you know the journey of Little Red’s journey to Grandma’s house? Think again, Besties. 

Bringing Christmas joy to the Sir John Mills Theatre this year is Eastern Angles Theatre Company’s Little Red. The 1 hour 30 minute production, which is an alternative to the traditional panto, packs in a whole lot of fun for all to enjoy. 

Leading the four-strong cast in this production, based on the classic fairytale Little Red Riding Hood, is Fatima Jawara as Little Red. As we follow Little Red down the path to Grandma’s house, Jawara does a brilliant job at captivating the audience. 

Writer and Director Kevin Dyer brings this production to life with a cleverly performed dialogue. This includes references to childhood games such as musical statues and grandmother’s footsteps; expert comic timing for the delivery of jokes and use of other fairytales within the show’s dialogue. 

Harvey Robinson gives a remarkable, cunning rendition of ‘Mr Wolfie’, otherwise known as the big bad wolf. Music by Patrick Dineen used throughout the production is intertwined into Robinson’s performance. This can also be said for Anoush Kendrick as Mum, Bronte Tadman as Grandma, and Jawara as musical interludes are frequently featured in the interlinking of scenes.

Strong performances are given by Kendrick and Tadman, with great precision and warm, in-depth storytelling to both characters. The set design and unique costumes by Elizabeth Wright add to the overall uplifting feel of the production and a special mention should also go to the atmospheric lighting and puppetry. 

A splendid production providing plenty to enjoy.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Emily East

Little Red plays at St John Mills Theatre in Ipswich until 7 January 2023, with tickets available here.