I Believe In Unicorns by Michael Morpurgo
Best-selling children's book comes to life on the stage
Naomi is a freelance features writer
Charlie, 11, is waiting in line at the theatre, bouncing from foot to foot in anticipation of I Believe in Unicorns, the best-selling show based on the book by popular children’s author Michael Morpurgo.
“I’ve read all his books in the last three years except this one. Can’t wait, this is my first theatre trip!” he beams, swinging his little sister’s hand.
The excitement of the rest of the waiting children in the audience is palpable inside the theatre, and only ramps up as award-winning storyteller Danyah Miller absolutely owns the stage in this magical and mesmerising one woman show, set in a library full of books.
Inspired by a true story about a heroic Russian man rescuing books from a burning library, the performance immerses us in Tomas’ journey—a boy who dislikes books until he meets the Unicorn and the Unicorn Lady, transforming his life. Tomas, with his newfound love of books, becomes instrumental in saving his burning library when his village is devastated by war.
Miller has a wonderful acting talent that will have you both laughing and shedding a tear in a very short space of time. The audience were absolutely gripped by her energetic and convincing performance as she took us on an hour long interactive journey full of enchanting anecdotes and special effects.
The highlight for me was the Russian doll inspired book trick and for Charlie, who I caught up with afterwards, his favourite part was ‘the nice lady letting us stroke the unicorn afterwards backstage!’
I Believe in Unicorns is on tour until 5 November. www.ibelieveinunicorns.co.uk
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