Barking Gecko Arts have created the perfect introduction to theatre to ever exist. Ever.
House’s protagonist is Cathelijn, who is completely and undeniably alone. She has no friends, no family, no one to turn to. All by herself in the centre of a dark forest, she tries to be strong, like a Viking.
And that’s when she sees it – the house. A higgledy-piggledy mess of a place as tall as the trees. Inside, she finds Piotr, a small boy who never stops talking, and Elka, a grey-haired explorer who insists they keep the curtains closed tight.
Everything about this story was beautiful, well thought and heartwarming. The set was next level incredible, with so much detail in all aspects that my daughter was hoping the audience would get to do a walkthrough after the show! The house really added to the magic of the story.
That said, I don’t doubt the actors could have provided the same level performance in front of a black curtain. Adults portraying kids can be a bit hit and miss at times, but the cast were engaging and pulled it off seamlessly.
House is aimed at children 8 + though I truly think this is a story for everyone. There’s not a dull moment and the kids loved giggling at the actors interacting with each other as well as the house. I wasn’t expecting how much it would pull on my heartstrings either. My eyes may have misted over once or twice!
The meaning behind the play was delivered in a beautiful, straightforward way. At its crux, House reminds the audience that we have space in our hearts for all the feelings that come along. No matter how bad the weather, no storm lasts forever.
Something that really set this show apart for me was the newly released, accompanying picture book prequel. The book provides the backstory of Elka and House. While not necessary to watch and fully enjoy the play, it does add something extra sweet to the experience. The book can be purchased both before and after the show, and is the best memento to take home and enjoy with the family.
House is showing at the Octagon Theatre for just one more weekend! Book your tickets now!