Abridging Bill Bryson can be no easy matter. Each delightfully crafted paragraph begs to be read and vies for your attention through witty observations and amusing anecdotes.
It must have been hard work, but Brighton Theatre Events have done a fantastic job in bring Bryson’s ”British” book to the stage.
Following Bryson’s final tour of the UK before repatriating to America Notes From A Small Island breaths life into an already lively text. By removing some of the more rambling sections, Notes really conjures up a feel of accompanying Bryson on his tour. His colourful observations remain intact, with all the best characters remain unadulterated. This outsider’s look at the British makes us realise that we’re quite ridiculous with our talk of weather, instilled good manners and unbreakable good humour.
This electric mix of superb writing and great acting combine to produce an immensely entertaining piece of theatre. Big on laughs and beautiful stereotypes, Notes From A Small Island strips Britain to its core and reminds us not to judge a book by its cover.
4/5
Richard Biggs
