Sleeping Beauty

The Emporium, Brighton

December 5 2014 - January 17 2015

Weds - Sun 7pm 

Saturdays & Sundays 2pm  

It is hopeful in this climate to see a theatre open rather than shut, especially one that runs off its own creativity and coffee without Arts Council funding. 

The Emporium in Brighton has woken up London Road, with its cafe that is open to study and discussion and its theatre that stands proud with derelict walls, benches and cushions. A return to the old and rough trade of theatre.

I take my daughter every year to see their Pantos, which are more palatable than most children’s shows as they are more full of wit and craft rather than bling and noise. 

There’s a cheeky nod to the “he’s behind you” and the “oh no he's not!” while the rest of the time we are indulged in the old-fashioned and sweaty craft of energetic storytelling.

Written by Doug Devaney, the witty script bounces along and time flies quickly for both children and adults. 

As with most modern scripts there is a concerted effort to question female stereotypes especially when it comes to marriage. Sleeping Beauty immediately mistrusts the Prince’s declaration of love as he doesn't know her!  

With beautiful music composed by Christopher Andrews and bold, strong direction by James Weisz, this character-led production is set to warm many a family’s hearts this winter. 

The character of Billberry takes centre stage as our guide and narrator throughout the 100-year time span as the long-suffering servant to all. 

Gruff, camp, northern and delicate, Conor Baum is a supreme storyteller, holding the narrative and audience together. 

Other noticeable performances were by Doug Devaney, both writer and actor, as the booming green-bearded ex-frog turned prince who was much happier as the frog, Peta Taylor's sensitive and funny queen and a marvellous double act by Coco Hennessy as Dandelion, crouched and lowly next to her Majesty Bindweed played by Jenny Rowe, a perfect villainess with a rich, strong voice and presence that wows the audience and terrified my daughter under the bench!

Personally I missed some of the gothic romanticism of this tale, but looking at my daughter she was thoroughly happy and the child performers’ singing, acting and dancing were both inspiring for young ones and delightful for oldies like me who still need fairly tales on a regular basis, especially in times like now.

Prices from £14.50- £22.50

Tanushka Marah