The Storm Whale, an adaptation of Benji Davies' 2013 picture book, charms audiences with its idyllic seaside setting and heartwarming tale of friendship between a young boy named Noi and a washed-up whale. The production, directed by Matt Aston, sensitively explores the theme of solitude vs loneliness, a lesson passed on to Noi by his deceased mother.
However, some may find the script's earnest messages repetitive, and the dialogue occasionally wearying. While the show is certainly evocative, it lacks a touch of raucous fun that might appeal more to older audiences. The theatre's previous production, The Singing Mermaid, had a more energetic tone, which this adaptation seems to have left behind.
One notable aspect of the production is its use of puppetry, with Keith Frederick's whale puppet being a particular standout. The show also features impressive choreography by Hayley Del Harrison and lighting design by Jason Salvin, creating an immersive experience for young viewers.
If only the script had been more playful and adventurous in tone, The Storm Whale would have truly come alive on stage. Instead, it feels somewhat subdued compared to other children's shows. Despite this, the production remains a touching tale of friendship that will likely resonate with its young audience.
However, some may find the script's earnest messages repetitive, and the dialogue occasionally wearying. While the show is certainly evocative, it lacks a touch of raucous fun that might appeal more to older audiences. The theatre's previous production, The Singing Mermaid, had a more energetic tone, which this adaptation seems to have left behind.
One notable aspect of the production is its use of puppetry, with Keith Frederick's whale puppet being a particular standout. The show also features impressive choreography by Hayley Del Harrison and lighting design by Jason Salvin, creating an immersive experience for young viewers.
If only the script had been more playful and adventurous in tone, The Storm Whale would have truly come alive on stage. Instead, it feels somewhat subdued compared to other children's shows. Despite this, the production remains a touching tale of friendship that will likely resonate with its young audience.
. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's got all these beautiful elements like the seaside setting and the heartwarming story about friendship... but for a show aimed at older kids and adults too, I feel like it's missing that extra kick to make it more engaging? It's just so... wholesome 
. Don't get me wrong, it's cute and all, but I'd love to see some more energy and playfulness in the script! The puppetry is fire tho 
but like i gotta be real the story felt kinda repetitive idk if they could've made it more exciting for older kids? 
the puppets tho are EVERYTHING 
keith frederick's whale puppet is insane! 
and the choreo & lighting were on point too 
i feel like with a bit more swag the show would've been lit 
But the dialogue felt a bit too preachy for my taste, you know? Like, I get that it's trying to teach us something about loneliness and all that, but can't we just have some fun moments instead of hitting us over the head with it all the time? 
. But if they'd brought some more energy to the script, man... that would've been a whole different show 
. Young kids are gonna love it, no doubt about it 
... it's like they're trying to drill a point home or something. I mean, can't we have some fun and games for once? The puppetry is nice, though 
- that whale puppet does look pretty epic! But overall, I think it feels like it's missing a bit of oomph to really make it pop 
.
. It's not like it's trying to be some big, loud musical or anything 
. I think the script is sweet, even if it is a bit on the nose sometimes 
. I think people are just expecting too much from it, you know? It's a children's show at heart, not some Oscar-bait drama 
. Give it a chance, and I think you'll find it's actually pretty endearing 
, but I gotta say, I was kinda expecting more oomph! I mean, it's a super sweet show and all, but for me, the vibes were pretty chill... like, too chill 
. I love how they used puppetry and lighting design to create this immersive experience, tho! That whale puppet is on point 
.
Still, I love those puppetry skills - Keith Frederick's whale puppet is insane! 
. Still, I'm sure the little ones will love it 
especially when he's talking to his mom's ghost in bed 
still, the puppetry is so cool! I wish they'd thrown more fun into it, though. The stage looks super pretty with all that lighting and choreography 
. I wish they'd added more excitement and energy to balance out the quieter moments 
. Still, it's clear that the production team put a lot of love into making this show special 
. The puppetry is stunning tho! Keith Frederick's whale puppet is like nothin' I’ve ever seen before 
.