The Magnificent Tale of Emily Law and Arturo the Waterboy

Welcome to Victorian Manchester courtesy of norfox Young People’s Theatre Company, with valued support from The Heritage Lottery Fund’s ‘Young Roots Programme.’ Professor Phobeter is in town with his travelling ‘freak’ show Odditopia. Here we meet Hercules who can lift a grown man with one finger, Jessie and Davey the Bohemian Twins and the beautiful Viola and of course; Arturo the Waterboy. Each character shares their story of how they came to live and work at the Odditopia. 

Arturo’s amazing ability to hold his breath was discovered as a child and lead to him being sold to Professor Phobeter and becoming a star attraction at the Odditopia.  However this means living in a tank and being on public display all day every day.

Emily Law takes a trip to the Odditopia with some of her hard earned money as a treat and as soon as she sees Arturo, it’s love at first sight and she knows she must figure out a way to release him from this miserable life and leave together.  Actually achieving this however will not be easy as Professor Phobeter is very protective of his family, particularity his waterboy.

Performed entirely by a young cast, every performer gives a committed and heartfelt turn with good clear diction and making good use of the space. Several professional companies could take note of this.  It is a pleasure to be able to hear each word clearly and a fundamental basic of any successful performance.  

Scene changes are beautifully punctured with a variety of tracks by Manchester band Elbow and this works well to fill in the gaps and really lifts and enhances the whole production and is a welcome addition to the performance.       

Although a little drawn at times, overall this is a charming piece with some well written dialogue, well constructed performances. The norfox Young People’s Company have produced a professional and accomplished performance that is both entertaining and engaging to watch.

– Ruth Lovett