The
Tylwyth Teg is absolutely enthralling. Rooted in the ancient art of
storytelling to be found in Welsh folk-lore, this particular story is
given a very modern treatment. Integral to the story is the music, sound
effects and lighting, with the whole blend working magnificently. Full
credit must go to Director/Designer Mark Edel-Hunt for creating this
imaginative fusion.
The three
performers Benedict Hitchins, Rachel King and Ros Steele are brilliant.
They tell the story of Penny Gill, a poor spinner, and her baby. The
play is set in 1781 in a small Welsh village at the onset of the
Industrial Revolution.
They also
perform as three malicious fairies, creating convincingly the mysticism
of the underworld. In these sections, the story is performed in mime and
dance. The action is slowed down at times to the point of complete quiet
and stillness. The interaction between Penny Gill and the fairies is
resolved at the end of the play but is there a happy ending? Perhaps
not.
This is a
spell binding theatrical production from Apricot Theatre.
*****
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