The production based on Malorie Blackman’s novel is in London until the 22nd February before embarking on tour of the UK until June.
WhatsOnStage: ***** “Fynn-Aiduenu handles the shifts in tone with sensitivity and a vibrant theatricality, wrestling the energy of the cast, the flashy technical elements (Paul Wills’s beating heart-meets-beatbox-meets-tellybox set and Andrew Exeter’s neon-colourful lighting are wonders to behold) and the sense of potential tragedy, into an irresistible, compulsive whole.”
The Guardian: *** “This staging has plenty of style and flows swiftly, helped by Xana’s sound design and compositions – but it never has quite the same direct appeal to head and heart as Blackman’s book.”
The Stage: **** “Malorie Blackman’s moving children’s novel about organ transplantation is brought to vivid theatrical life.”
A Young (ish) Perspective: **** “All actors bar Yeboah played multiple characters, although the stand out performance came from Christina Ngoyi, whose portrayal of Cameron’s best friend Marylin was really the centre of the piece. Her bubbliness and empathy were constant reminders of relatable teenage loyalty and anguish. I also enjoyed the range Akil Young put into his portrayals of Cameron’s friend/dive rival Rashid, and his father Mike- the switch between accents, ages and physicality appeared effortless and convincing.”
London Pub Theatres Magazine: **** “Pig Heart Boy is wonderfully delicate, humorous and raucous in all the right places.”
Theatre & Tonic: ***** “If pressed, the one word I would use to describe Pig Heart Boy is beautiful. If I was allowed three more words I would choose hilarious, thoughtful and special. The rest of the UK is in for a treat when the cast and crew embark on their nationwide tour. Not just for children, but also some great nostalgia for us 90s kids.”
Everything Theatre: **** “Finally, let’s briefly mention what else we saw on stage tonight, aside from a skilfully executed, thought-provoking, funny and entertaining show: a courageous Black boy who is the smartest in his class; a young Black girl who believes she can get a PhD; a Black man who can openly cry and tell his son he loves him; an immensely talented Black cast and crew. This is great theatre doing an important job of normalisation and inclusion without having to say that’s what it’s doing. That makes my heart beat faster!”
West End Best Friend: ***** “A stunning production of a well-respected story, wholly suited to the target age range but likely to be enjoyed by many other audiences as well. It’s touring to Sheffield, Liverpool, Salford, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Norwich, Newcastle, Poole, Northampton, Canterbury and Leicester between now and June – a must for your diary!”
Curtain Call Reviews: **** “Visually, all aspects were brilliant – with Paul Wills’ design as a highlight. There were some technical hitches but these were almost unnoticeable and had very minimal effect on the overall experience, which really is the way to describe it. The actors wrap you round their little fingers and fully immerse you into their world, in more ways than one (without spoilers)!”
Adventures in Theatreland: ***** “Pig Heart Boy is a gorgeous piece of theatre that will not only delight younger audiences with the stunning set and strong performances, but will leave them open to new experiences. The play serves as a gateway between fiction and reality and invites kids and adults alike to take away a sense of inner strength, courage, and love. A fantastic adaptation, Pig Heart Kid is a surefire hit.”
To book tickets for the London run visit: https://www.unicorntheatre.com/events/pig-heart-boy