The Silent Toy Soldier - The Weston Studio - Millenium Centre - December 2015

THE SILENT TOY SOLDIER

HIJINX THEATRE , WESTON STUDIO – MILLENIUM CENTRE , December-10-15

The run up to Christmas is predictably hectic with parties, present buying, food shopping etc. However, this reviewer always eagerly anticipates the email inviting him to the latest production from Hijinx theatre. I know that however stressed and tired I am entering the auditorium I know that I when I leave I will have been thoroughly entertained and I will walk out with a bounce in my step. It would be easy at this time of year to produce a simple crowd-pleasing show but that is not the Hijinx way. Their new director, Jon Darfydd-Kidd has taken ETA Hoffman’s tale “ The Nutcracker & The Mouse King” and given it that Hijinx twist. The plot revolves around a young baker turned into a wooden Nutcracker following a curse from the Queen of Mice. Not only does the Mouse King then declare war on the Nutcracker but the naughty mice start to kidnap the happy souls of Jamburg. Although he is not a soldier these folk expect the Nutcracker to protect them and when he refuses he is banished to with a variety of lively characters. But, he develops cunning plan. The joy of “The Silent Toy Soldier” however, is not the plot but the performance and the staging. The atmosphere of the piece is beautifully enhanced by talent musicians from South Wales University, Caerleon who also provide unexpected cameos. The plot may be a little complicated but two helpful narrators steer us through proceedings. One of the many joys of a Hijinx/ Odyssey show is that you can clearly see the enjoyment of the performers ( I must single out Blue Balmforth for his infectious enthusiasm throughout). Huge praise must also go to the design team who produced a large array of eye-catching costumes, not only adding colour and life to the stage but also clearly defining each character. In contrast to Mack & Mabel in the Main House “ The Silent Toy Soldier” does have a happy ending. As usual I left invigorated and now fully in the Christmas mood. I believe this is the 4th Hijinx show I have seen and even though my expectations are now quite high, this show excelled them. So, a big round of applause from me to everyone involved and I wish you all a happy festive period.

Reviewed by: David Cox