Review: I Was a Rat

Philip Pullman’s I Was A Rat! Introduces us to Roger, a scruffy pageboy who knocks on the door of an elderly couple, Bob and Joan, one night. All he can say is “I was a rat!”. But can this really be true? Can a rat turn into a boy?

This dark gripping story is brought to life with music, comedy and dance as we follow Roger’s journey to discover who he is. Be it an ordinary boy with a few ratty habits, a money making fairground freak or a terrifying monster that lives in the town sewers…

Fox Jackson is wonderful as Roger; his ratty like antics on stage are fantastic. He showed the vulnerability of the character, which translated to the audience well. Jackson made his debut as the lead in Billy Elliot the Musical at the age of 13, and judging from his performance in this production we are sure to see much, much more of him in the future. He really has something special and is so watchable, a true delight.

The hard working ensemble brings this performance alive. There are musical instruments, puppets and props galore and, some incredible and colourful costumes, all of this makes the cast appear much bigger than the eight talented actors that there are. And also makes for a fantastic show.

From the start I Was A Rat! Is truly magical. A high energy and colourful production that had the audience gripped throughout. This is a brilliant family friendly production that suits all ages. Immerse yourself in a world of fantasy and imagination and discover if there is a happy ending for Roger the Rat.

I Was A Rat is one show that you really don’t want to miss!

WENDY COOK —
I Was A Rat! is at the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich until Saturday 16th March. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 295900 or online at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk/.