Storm in a Tea Cup (Tour – Manchester)

In this charming play an unexpected storm gives Lighthouse keeper Lenny a chance to redeem himself, following some behaviour which turns people away from him.

One of the many joyful things in store for audiences is the fact that Jonny Quick and Mark Whitaker gain spontaneous  participation from little ones without the need for corny panto tricks. Youngsters are involved from their arrival onwards. On the afternoon I attended, many stayed behind afterwards which highlights how engaging Storm In A Tea Cup is. 

Writers/directors Alison Duddle and Bob Firth make skillful use of puppets and no task is too big for them as they recreate some very ambitious scenes for the play, but do it with such ease that it looks simple. There are morals within the play about friendship, but not once is the audience patronised.

Horse + Bamboo have yet another winner on their hands as this play is involving, sweet natured, yet never sugary in its delivery; ideal to chase the January blues away.

– Dave Cunningham