The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean (Bristol)

As a ‘scrapologist’, someone who researches and investigates old scrapbooks, Dr. Patricia Baker (Shona Reppe) has hit upon a new discovery in this latest family show at Bristol Old Vic, just in time for half term.

As ‘scrapettes’, the audience are in Dr. Baker’s lab and are invited along for the ride as she makes new discoveries each time she turns the pages of the very dusty old scrapbook she has found. Using projected images, shadows and soundscapes, we discover together that the book belonged to the bearded, old and lonely Artemis J Mood. By uncovering train tickets, string and an ocean full of seaweed, we make certain discoveries about the lonely old man who spoke to himself that shows that all may not be as it seems with the mysterious Mr. Mood.

Like a cartoon mash up of the best comic book you have ever read and the best episode of CSI you have ever watched, Shona Reppe’s Dr. Baker is never anything less than entertaining and always thoroughly engaging. Her energy and enthusiasm for her job makes the adults in the audience think twice about their career choice and opens a whole new world for the little ones in the audience.

The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean is a hidden gem that towers over its competition even though the mysterious Ms Bean herself does not.