Review: THE WISHING TREE, Little Angel Theatre
The Wishing Tree is a puppet show that showcases the collaboration between pupils in Islington, London and Joseph Coelho. It is a tribute to the importance of relationships and is a way of addressing the children’s concerns, feelings and emotions from going through the pandemic.
The main character is Ben, a young boy who has just moved to a new estate and is feeling sad and anxious about all the changes around him. As he explores his new home, he goes on an adventure to find the missing tree of wishes. Along the way, he meets some magical creatures and hears about the hopes and dreams of other children like him.
The show is performed by Chris Nayak and Nadia Shash. There is a good representation of race and heritage in the show, even with the puppets (designed by Peter Morton and Katie Underhay), which are quite a sight to look at with their fine detail and colour.
Unfortunately, the show occasionally struggles to engage the audience and does not include us in Ben’s new world and the adventure he undertakes. Because of this, it is not easy to make the connection between Ben’s move to a new estate and his challenges to the magical creatures he meets in his new surroundings. The magical creatures also look and sound a bit scary for young children.
The Wishing Tree is a good starting point to talk to children about relationships and expressing their fears and feelings. Let us know what you think of the show if you get the chance to see it, Besties.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Irene Bausas
The Wishing Tree runs at Little Angel Studios until 26 September. To book tickets, please click here.