We round up the reviews for Punchdrunk Enrichment’s latest show…
Broadway World: **** “Fireside Tales is a heartfelt reminder of the value of gathering together, listening to one another and keeping stories alive. It celebrates connection across generations and encourages children to see themselves as storytellers with voices worth sharing. It may be a gentle experience rather than a high energy one, but its effect lingers warmly like the glow of an ember protected from the cold.”
Everything Theatre: *** “Given the power of Punchdrunk Enrichment, it feels like they’ve played it safe on this occasion. Fireside Tales is a pleasant way to spend an hour, and it does immerse children in a space where they can embrace imagination; it could just do more. It’s a show that glows rather than sparks.”
Immersive Rumours: **** “With a message that’ll stay with audiences, beautifully detailed sets and generous performances from its two-strong cast, Fireside Tales is a wonderfully realised piece of immersive theatre that’s been created with the utmost care. Atmospheric, reflective and magical, it’s also a poignant reminder that giving each other the space to share our stories can turn that spark inside all of us into a flame, if we continue to tend to it.”
The Guardian: “This gentle and generous piece of immersive theatre combines captivating storytelling with moments of wonder.”
A Young(ish) Perspective: *** 1/2 “Throughout the script, there are too many layers of meta-storytelling to demonstrate that significance. Yes, stories matter. Yes, they define us. Yes, they are the way of thinking beyond dialectics. But do the kids really know? Do they know why story matters? Our whole journey lacks that solid story to be defining and inspiring, and to justify its own magnificent world-building. At the moment, the whole production feels like unwrapping an onion, only to find nothing in the middle.”
The Stage: *** “Atmospheric, esoteric interactive storytelling for ages seven to 11 featuring marvellous, magical props.”
Theatre & Tonic: ***** “This is not a show to just sit and listen in, it is one where your stories become part of it; there are lots of interactive moments, and the actors are brilliant at ensuring each and every child gets the opportunity to have ‘their’ moment so no one feels left out, without it ever feeling like they’re pushing them into participating more than they want to. The cast creates such a comfortable environment that the kids aren’t afraid to stand out. This is a show all about valuing your own voice, own experience, and stories – something we all, young and old, sometimes need a space for. It’s a wonderful takeaway for everyone to have.”
To book tickets for the show visit: https://www.punchdrunkenrichment.org.uk/events/fireside-tales