NORTHERN Stage have a strong tradition of creating amazing Christmas shows, this year with the return of The Sorcerer’s Apprentice written by Laura Lindow, this is no different making a great change from the usual panto.
The opening of the show introduces us to an ancient magical force as an introduction to the show it’s incredibly powerful and drew me in immediately meaning I was completely engrossed throughout.
Hatty Rabbit, Beth Crame is the 13th child, born on Christmas Day. The story begins with Hatty at 13, before it recounts the story of her life, before returning to her at 13. Hatty’s Mam, Alice Blundell dies after giving birth to the 13 children, which means Hatty ends up living with Aunt Primula Fudge, Heather Dutton, who is perfectly over the top. After sending Hatty away to school, she becomes best friends with Evie Speak, Talia Nyathi. When she is 12 she receives a letter to invite her as an apprentice to the Sorcerer Hopkin Hopkins, Nick Figgis. Where the magic continues and she finds out all about her powers.
The villain in the story is Canopus Sly, Jessica Johnson, who is cool and classic with evilness you want to hate, but love as she hunts for the 13th child. The puppetry of Rats by Matthew Nicholson is so delightful and loved by the younger children.
The set designed by Amanda Mascarenhas is exceptional. But my highlight was the music from Katie Doherty, I’ve been a fan of her music for many years and her music is absolute perfection as it enhances the production.
This is a brilliant Christmas treat for all the family with an incredibly talented and hardworking cast.
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice runs until Saturday 7th January 2023 at Northern Stage
