If you fancy a light-hearted show of entrancing fairytales, this performance is definitely not for you! You would do well to take note of all the signs telling you that the content is sinister and shocking… It truly is. If you want to see something dark and twisted, which will test your preconceptions and leave you feeling completely disturbed, then this is the perfect place to spend an hour.
The production takes three of the Brothers Grimm’s fairytales, namely The Pied Piper of Hamlyn, Hansel and Gretel, and Sleeping Beauty, and brings them straight into the present world. Then, they are given an unexpected, menacing twist which culminates in a shocking show, covering such topics as abuse, cannibalism and sexual assault. Yet, even though the stories are disturbing, there are lighter moments and innuendos throughout, that have you chuckling occasionally, making this an unusual show.
The actors do a fantastic job at achieving their aims. Since they are all dressed head to toe in black, have no sets and use absolutely minimal props, you realise how hard they have had to work to create the feelings of unease you feel during (and after) the show. The creative use of candles, high pitched child’s laughter, masks, and xylophone music all helps to create an eerie ambiance. The performers are experts at mime, and use their bodies as additional props. The actors (Dan Mehers, Phil Clynes, Lee Ward, Greg Williams and Hayley Fitton) are a brave troupe putting on a production of this nature, as the material is highly controversial. You know they have done a fantastic job though, when you have left the show, and you find that even though you are out in the sun again, you can still feel the chill of a lingering feeling of horror and unease.
4/5 
Sandi Hunter
(15 votes, average: 4.67 out of 5)
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