Framed by a small but intricate set, Doctor of Scrapbooking, Patricia Baker (Shona Reppe), invites the audience to join her on her latest investigation: delving into the life of Victorian watchmaker Arthur J Mood. Part romance, part detective story, the layers of plot are pieced together at just the right speed, with Dr Baker as our knowledgeable guide. Reppe is a delight to watch, charming the adults as much as the children, and engaging in some excellent banter with silent technician Brenda. Every detail, both onstage and in the script, is fully exploited, and the sound and lighting design are truly magical. It’s a perfectly-formed show, though I did leave hoping it would go on just a little longer.

Traverse @ Scottish Book Trust, 3-26 Aug (not 6, 13, 20), 11.00am.
tw rating 5/5 | [Holly Close]

Sections: by Holly Close - ED2012 Children's Shows Reviews - tw rating 5/5 | Tags: Shona Reppe, Traverse Theatre

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