Bucket Club theatre company presents a sparkling new take on the King Arthur legend for all ages at Polka theatre in London. The story begins with young Grace waiting in A&E, Lego stuck up her nose and her brother hurt after a squabble. When Merlin appears in hospital, weaving a tale of mysterious adventure, Grace is pulled into an epic quest packed with enchanted forests and sparkling underwater realms. In the closing scenes, when Arthur finally pulls the famous sword from the stone, loud gasps ripple through an enchanted young audience.
Contemporary twists and witty nods
Writer Marietta Kirkbride’s contemporary take includes smart jokes for parents and a helping of Gawain the Green Knight. There are witty nods to today’s political climate, with a sixth-century England languishing without a king and struggling to find a leader with vision. But the children always come first, and the storytelling is consistently brisk, bold, and full of heart.
Strong ensemble cast
The five-strong ensemble cast performs with flair but never overdoes it, allowing gentle and moving moments to rise amid the silliness. Gurjot Dhaliwal’s Grace is plucky and brave, complemented nicely by Giles Carden’s earnest Arthur. Rose Wardlaw’s Merlin feels like a real and fallible person despite magical flourishes. Megan Vaughan-Thomas and Adam Mirsky are an inspired comic double act, their knights galloping about the stage atop two very silly horses—a joy to behold.
Vibrant music and inventive design
Harry Blake’s vibrant songs inject energy into proceedings, while Rebecca Jane Wood’s inventive set keeps things simple but striking. Bright costumes flood the stage with color, and stunning puppets brim with character. Nel Crouch’s light-touch direction allows freedom of expression and fun but keeps things tight and clear. A moving coda shows Grace happy back home with her brother, racing about their living room crafting costumes from whatever they have to hand—the myth of King Arthur rippling through yet another generation.
Arthur runs at Polka theatre, London, until 9 August.
