The new musical adaptation of Carlo Collodi's classic tale, Pinocchio, is a masterful reimagining of the beloved story, trading in its darkness for a heartwarming and hilarious exploration of family, love, and the complexities of growing up.
In this full-tilt production, Charlie Josephine's book brings to life the adventures of Geppetto, a free-thinking inventor who becomes an outcast in his narrow-minded Italian town. His creation, Pinocchio, is more than just a puppet – he's a symbol of curiosity and impulsiveness that leads him on a journey of self-discovery. With Peter O'Rourke's simple yet expressive wooden design, the puppeteers bring Pinocchio to life with wild and wonder-filled voices, perfectly capturing his zest for life.
The show's direction by Sean Holmes is meticulous, bringing out the best in the 14-strong cast as they navigate the complex web of relationships and morality that Collodi's story explores. Kerry Frampton and Lucy McCormick shine as the villainous Fox and Cat, while Steven Webb steals the show as the campy Giacomo Cricket and the terrifying Coachman.
But what truly sets Pinocchio apart is its nuanced portrayal of Geppetto's transformation from nervous caregiver to fully-fledged father. This heartwarming addition adds depth to the story, highlighting the importance of connection and love in shaping us into the people we become. The production's use of meta-theatricality, with a nod to Shakespeare's Globe's collapsible fourth wall, adds an extra layer of cleverness to the show.
The musical numbers are catchy and witty, ranging from rock'n'roll to ska, pop to blues, all thanks to Jim Fortune's inventive songwriting. The ensemble performances are excellent, nailing Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu's choreography with ease. While some of the lyrics can be a bit fast-paced at times, they add to the overall sense of energy and joy that permeates every aspect of this production.
Overall, Pinocchio is a triumphant adaptation that not only stays true to the original story but also injects it with fresh humor, heart, and humanity. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of connection in shaping us into the people we become.
In this full-tilt production, Charlie Josephine's book brings to life the adventures of Geppetto, a free-thinking inventor who becomes an outcast in his narrow-minded Italian town. His creation, Pinocchio, is more than just a puppet – he's a symbol of curiosity and impulsiveness that leads him on a journey of self-discovery. With Peter O'Rourke's simple yet expressive wooden design, the puppeteers bring Pinocchio to life with wild and wonder-filled voices, perfectly capturing his zest for life.
The show's direction by Sean Holmes is meticulous, bringing out the best in the 14-strong cast as they navigate the complex web of relationships and morality that Collodi's story explores. Kerry Frampton and Lucy McCormick shine as the villainous Fox and Cat, while Steven Webb steals the show as the campy Giacomo Cricket and the terrifying Coachman.
But what truly sets Pinocchio apart is its nuanced portrayal of Geppetto's transformation from nervous caregiver to fully-fledged father. This heartwarming addition adds depth to the story, highlighting the importance of connection and love in shaping us into the people we become. The production's use of meta-theatricality, with a nod to Shakespeare's Globe's collapsible fourth wall, adds an extra layer of cleverness to the show.
The musical numbers are catchy and witty, ranging from rock'n'roll to ska, pop to blues, all thanks to Jim Fortune's inventive songwriting. The ensemble performances are excellent, nailing Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu's choreography with ease. While some of the lyrics can be a bit fast-paced at times, they add to the overall sense of energy and joy that permeates every aspect of this production.
Overall, Pinocchio is a triumphant adaptation that not only stays true to the original story but also injects it with fresh humor, heart, and humanity. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of connection in shaping us into the people we become.
I mean, don't get me wrong, it sounds like it has some great elements, but isn't it kinda glossing over the whole "being a wooden puppet who almost gets his soul crushed by a belly flop into a fiery pit of doom" thing? 
I think that's what made Collodi's story so dark and compelling in the first place. It's not just about Geppetto's journey to fatherhood, but also Pinocchio's existential crisis and all that jazz... 
The show's focus on family and love is great, don't get me wrong, but I think it's worth exploring the complexities of growing up a little more deeply... 
! They did a great job making it more light-hearted and family-friendly, while still keeping the essence of the original story. The puppet design for Pinocchio looks super cool too 
, and the music sounds catchy - I'm already humming some of the tunes in my head 
. What really impressed me is how they showed Geppetto's transformation into a dad, it adds a whole new layer to the story. And wow, a rock'n'roll soundtrack? That's what I need more of 
! The cast seems talented too, especially that Steven Webb dude - he sounds hilarious as Giacomo Cricket 
. Overall, I'm sold on this Pinocchio musical, it looks like a real treat for the whole family 
!
The way they've reimagined the story is literally genius - it's like Collodi's classic tale has been given a whole new lease on life! 
And the music? FOR. REAL. Jim Fortune's songwriting is like a masterclass in catchy tunes! 
The way they've reimagined the story is so clever, adding all these extra layers of depth without losing the essence of what makes it so iconic. Geppetto's transformation from caregiver to dad is honestly my fave part - it's so beautifully done and adds a whole new level of nuance to the story 
It's like they've taken this character to a whole new level, bringing out these amazing voices that just capture his energy so perfectly. The supporting cast is also on point, especially Kerry Frampton and Lucy McCormick as the sassy Fox and Cat 
It's like, Pinocchio isn't just a story about getting caught up in your own little world - it's also about finding that balance with others. And I think that's something we can all relate to 
The whole thing has just this infectious energy to it, and I'm not surprised it's getting rave reviews 
and I gotta say, it sounds like they really nailed it! I love how they balanced out the dark parts of the story with humor and heart - that's what makes a great adaptation. The cast sounds amazing too, especially Steven Webb as Giacomo Cricket 
. Geppetto's transformation from caregiver to dad is so beautifully portrayed - it shows that even when we're trying our best, it's our connections with others that really make us grow. The show's use of meta-theatricality is also super clever 
! It made me think about how storytelling can be both entertaining & thought-provoking at the same time. And those musical numbers? So catchy & fun 
! All in all, it's a reminder that life is all about relationships & growth - and that we're not alone on our journeys 
! The way they reimagined the classic story is so clever, adding all these new layers to Geppetto's character that make him more than just a caregiver - he's like, a real dad figure! 
.
especially Steven Webb as Giacomo Cricket 
his energy is infectious 
! and Jim Fortune's songwriting is GENIUS 
can't wait to see it live 
pinocchio's transformation into a dad is SO relatable 
. Sean Holmes' direction is pure magic 
, it's like the show was made for me 
. And can we please get a merch line ASAP? 
! The cast, especially Steven Webb as Giacomo Cricket, had me LOLing nonstop 
I've already seen it three times (it's getting a replay soon 
) and I still can't get enough of it. Pinocchio is not just a show, it's an experience - it'll make you laugh, cry, and cheer for more! 
. What really gets me though is how they've added this nuanced portrayal of Geppetto's transformation into fatherhood - it's so beautifully done