Presented by Trick of the Light Theatre
Reviewed 17 February 2016
The Bookbinder is a magnificent theatrical masterpiece. It is storytelling at its best.
Written and performed by Ralph McCubbin Howell and based on a story by him and the director, Hannah Smith, The Bookbinder is a story that leaps off the page straight into our imaginations thanks to the combination of puppetry, performance and brilliant storytelling.
Howell is a bookbinder who is interviewing a potential apprentice bookbinder, the audience. He informs us that it is not an easy job and that many a prospective apprentice has left. To prove his point and to make us aware of the potential dangers, he relates a tale of one such apprentice who insisted on cutting corners and not completely putting his all into his work. Without giving anything away, let’s just say that the apprentice literally becomes part of the story – also, the presentation of the programme gives a clever clue.
There is a lesson to be learnt from this well written tale, but it doesn’t clout one over the head repeatedly, and like all good tales, there is a twist at the end.
Howell is perfect as the bookbinder, displaying not only his superb storytelling skills but his mastery at acting. One hangs on his every word and his touches of humour are extremely well delivered.
There is a nicely atmospheric soundtrack by Tane Upjohn Beatson. The effective lighting is cleverly provided by mainly an ordinary desk lamp.
This is a spellbinding show for all ages and makes us hope that this New Zealand company returns to our shores again and again.
Reviewed by Brian Godfrey
Twitter: @briangods
Rating (out of 5): 5
Venue: Bakehouse Theatre 255 Angas Street, Adelaide
Season: 12 – 20 February 2016
Duration: 55 mins
Tickets: $23 – $28
Bookings: Book through FringeTix online or at a FringeTix box office (booking fees apply)
http://www.adelaidefringe.com.au
http://www.bakehousetheatre.com
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