Susy Douch enjoys a brilliant festive show to delight and entertain all ages
We had been to The Rondo previously and it hadn’t lost any of its charm from our last visit. It is a cosy, intimate venue, located in Larkhall, Bath and seating an audience of just over 100. The theatre holds a variety of events all year round, with a hugely varied programme including comedy, theatre and music, with an emphasis on new writing and emerging theatre companies.
A small bar is situated inside the auditorium run by volunteers serving hot and cold drinks, as well as a small selection of snacks with the added bonus that you can take them to your seats, thereby adding to the homely ambience. Although the seating is rather worn and faded, it is still comfy. There is an ongoing appeal to generate sufficient funds for replacement and repair works.
We were greeted by friendly, welcoming staff on the reception desk to check and confirm our seat allocation, and then made our way to our seats. Due to its small size and cinema-style arrangement, there are no restricted views of the stage and more accessible places available on the front row.
The Stolen Winter Light is performed by the Greedy Pig Theatre Company, an all-inclusive group founded by two Bath Spa University alumni. The added funding from the Arts Council for the performances provided a subtitled screen as well as BSL interpreter, making for a fully inclusive experience.
It was lovely and entertaining that the interpreter was included in the performance as a cast member rather than just being on the sideline.
The on-stage set is simple but creative and put to very good use. The storyline and entire show are unique and hugely entertaining throughout with many laugh-out-loud moments. Easy and catching music and songs are included seamlessly. There were also some very clever jokes worked into the narrative, but nothing felt contrived or cringy.
All of the humour is suitable for any age, with subtleties and great facial expressions making it very entertaining and easy flowing.
The story is set in a fictional town of Midwinter, where the residents are preparing for the annual storm and facing the challenges that it will bring. Someone has been stealing the stars that are needed to keep everyone safe and Bo sets out to find the culprit.
I’ll bet it’s the only show you’ll go to this year, or indeed in your life, with the line, “Is it also an apology clementine?” and a pet rock called Dwayne!
At around 1¼ hours without an interval, it was suitable for all ages (recommended for over 7) and not too late an evening for younger visitors. The show runs until 24th December including after-school performances at 4:30pm and separate Big Scream and Relaxed performances.
Relaxed performances are for everyone, but lighting is subdued and remains on throughout and a breakout area is available in the foyer. Big Scream performances accommodate the very young, with 18 months and under going free.
The Stolen Winter Light runs at the Rondo until 24 December. Tickets are £16 full, £14 concession with a free ticket when four or more are booked, plus discounted prices for special performances.
Full details and booking online at www.rondotheatre.co.uk