Hapless Tom is desperate to go on the ‘Best School Trip Ever’ to the local biscuit factory, but he has 3 ‘sad’ faces on the class achievement board at school – which means he’s only 1 away from being excluded from the trip!
Between trying to make sure he gets his poster homework in on time, prepare for the school open day, and compete with the annoying Marcus Meldrew to be the first to draw on the new council doodle wall, Tom also has to deal with an impending family special occasion. What could go wrong?
This production of Tom Gates Live On Stage brings everything you’d expect from the award winning team who have so successfully adapted Horrible Histories and Gangsta Granny; fun, energy and classic comic book characterisation from the small cast of excellent actors.
It’s cleverly staged using a minimalist approach and a projection screen with multiple layers and apertures, so the set is seamlessly transformed from school classroom, to Tom’s family home, his bedroom, the local shop and a ‘Hot Dog Car’! Tom’s internal ramblings and thoughts are expertly shown as quick-fire projections and his grumpy sister Delia never appears without a rain cloud and lightening over her head!
Most actors take on a couple of parts with rapid changes. Whining, annoying Marcus transforms well into simpering homely Granny, while Tom’s friend Norman takes on a multiplicity of roles with ease.
It’s a brilliant adventure; a perfect evening’s entertainment for the whole family – even if you haven’t read Liz Pichon’s books.
Paula Luke
