Performed by Catbird Theatre at On the Boards Theatre Company during the Anywhere Festival, 'Stark Raven Mad' took the audience on a whimsical journey through poetry. The merry crowd of little rascals and their grown-ups enjoyed a delightful fusion of gothic and goofy antics that captivated both the young and the young at heart.
'Stark Raven Mad' is a poetic kaleidoscope, featuring 30 poems from literary legends like Edgar Allan Poe, Emily Dickinson, and Lewis Carroll. These poems weren't just recited - they were transformed into a spectacle with puppets, costumes, and lively movement. The trio of children's performers—Alice Beaver Clapham, Mary Eggleston, and Aimee Gray—brought an infectious energy that had the kids riveted. They animated these classic poems (often written to frighten children into good behaviour) in a manner that was accessible and fun for young viewers.
One of the show's most engaging features was its interactive element. Children were invited to join in the fun, dressing up in silly costumes, and acting out brief scenes. It was heartwarming to see their faces light up as they participated and took their bows. The clever use of sound effects and songs like "Monster Mash," "Time Warp", "Thriller," and "Spooky Scary Skeletons" kept the energy high.
The performers easily transformed into characters like creepy goblins, cackling witches, swashbuckling pirates, or sneaky spiders. They even got to showcase puppetry skills with skeletons, snakes, birds, and more. Their fun physicality ensured that even the more lengthy poems were engaging and enthralling for the kids. And despite the complexity of some poems' vocabulary, the performers' animated voice work guaranteed that each piece was vibrant. The hilarious depiction of Romeo and Juliet's tragic end was especially memorable.
With a runtime of just 60 minutes, the show successfully catered to the short attention spans of its young audience by presenting poems ranging from 30 seconds to a few minutes each. Closing with "The Raven," the show ended on a fitting and memorable note. The post-show activities, including a Q&A session, worksheet, lucky dip, costume try-ons, and photo opportunities with the cast, added a nice touch to the overall experience.
Stark Raven Mad offers a unique way to introduce children to classic poetry. With its combination of puppetry, play, and participation, it’s a fantastic choice for families and school groups looking for a fun and enriching theatrical experience. This show is a testament to the power of theatre in making literature accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
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