Review: Pinocchio
Pinocchio makes a return to DanceEast this December with a performance that is truly breathtaking.
Performed by Jasmin Vardimon’s talented dancers the magic unfolds as lonely woodcutter Geppetto creates a wooden marionette puppet. The fairy brings the toy to life to keep the old man company but Pinocchio has other ideas… The wooden boy doesn’t go to school as promised, but instead heads off for adventure…
Pinocchio soon finds himself in bad company, which leads him into trouble, but will he listen to his conscience and return home to his father Geppetto?
This adaptation is based on the original book by Carlo Collodi and is beautifully told through Vardimon’s stunning choreography. This production is full on action and totally captivating to watch.
The show is full of twists and turns as we journey with Pinocchio as he becomes a ‘real boy’. There are many unexpected surprises for the audience along the way and it’s hard to review without giving too much away, but it is safe to say that the aerial displays and clever staging certainly does not disappoint.
This production of Pinocchio is one of those performances that stays with you. It captivates you from the start. The simple set and clever lighting provides the perfect backdrop for the stunning storytelling through dance. But it’s the attention to detail that really hits the mark. The facial expressions of the dancers as they truly acted the parts was spot on making the characters totally believable.
If you’re looking for something different to the normal festive pantomimes and shows this Christmas then Pinocchio is a must, this wonderful journey of discovery is just perfect.
Pinocchio is at the Jerwood DanceHouse, DanceEast until Thursday 16th December. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 295230 or visit danceeast.co.uk
Review Wendy Cook, Ipswich24 Magazine