Theatre / Reviews
Review: Judith Kerr’s Mog the Forgetful Cat, Bristol Old Vic – ‘Dearly cherished source material is in very good hands here’
Judith Kerr’s celebrated Mog stories hold a rightful place at the heart of so many families. Happily then, that, newly adapted by The Wardrobe Ensemble, they are in excellent hands.
In a co-production with the Old Vic and the Royal & Derngate, Northampton, Judith Kerr’s Mog the Forgetful Cat in fact brings to life several of Kerr’s classic adventures in one delightful hour-long show, perfectly pitched for young children.
It is currently enjoying a half-term run at Bristol Old Vic, before a spring tour of the UK.
Mog and the V.E.T. and Mog’s Bad Thing are also taken from page to stage, woven together in an overrarching narrative arc of a year in the life of the Thomas’ cat.
The Thomas house and garden forms the basis of the set, which has a decidedly geometric flavour, all overlapping circles, triangles, squares and rectangles.
It’s pleasingly nostalgic of the time in which these books were written, and for many of the adults watching, the slight rose-coloured glow that one tends to equate with childhood.
Although faithful to Kerr’s narratives, the humour, colour and life with which the ensemble make their mark is impressive, and carries everyone along, without ever patronising.
Music is cleverly incorporated into the action, and there is plenty of space allotted for catchy song and dance numbers, as well as a healthy dollop of audience interaction along the way.
It’s a very solid ensemble piece, although the majority of the laughs undoubtedly go to Ben Vardy as Mr Thomas, singing in deference to his favourite chair.
Georgina Goodchild also deserves special mention for miaowing, stretching and nimbly jumping through the hour with feline aplomb.
It’s warm, enchanting, inclusive and low stakes – a show that makes even the smallest audience members feel safe and held, like all good children’s stories should.
Judith Kerr’s Mog The Forgetful Cat is at Bristol Old Vic until February 18 at 10.30am and 1.30pm. Tickets are available at www.bristololdvic.org.uk.
All photos: Manuel Harlan; note the images show the original 2022 cast
Read more: Review: Robin Hood: Legend of the Forgotten Forest, Bristol Old Vic
Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
