Review: Treasure Island (Eastern Angles)
Christmas is the time when lots of families head to the theatre for the annual panto… but if you fancy something a little different this year, there’s a great festive alternative right here in our region.
Ipswich-based Eastern Angles have once again delivered their trademark alternative Christmas show — this time, a lively East Anglian twist on the classic Treasure Island.
In their version, Treasure Island isn’t in the Caribbean… it’s a mysterious island just off the Suffolk coast, near the legendary lost city of Dunwich. A talented cast of four — Charlie Venables, Chileya Mwampulo Emma Zadow and Georgina Liley — bring all the larger-than-life characters to the stage… and even team up with feathered friend Captain Flint the parrot!
The story is familiar: a treasure map, some rather dodgy characters, and a race to uncover the loot before the sea swallows the island for another year. But the real magic is Eastern Angles’ trademark humour, creativity, and storytelling. They tour with simple sets, but it’s the cast and the energy they bring that makes the show sparkle.
With smaller audiences in their Ipswich home and village halls around the region, Eastern Angles productions always feel much more intimate — you’re close to the action and the actors really engage with the crowd. This year, some younger performers from the company’s junior group also join the cast.
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly festive outing that isn’t a traditional panto, Treasure Island from Eastern Angles is a brilliant choice — playful, imaginative, and full of East Anglian charm.
At The Studio @ Gatacre Road, Ipswich until Saturday 3rd January 2026, then Woodbridge’s Seckford Theatre 7th-10th January – www.easternangles.co.uk
Review: Mark Keable, Ipswich24 Magazine.
Picture: Mike Kwasniak