I can’t think of a better way to recommend this show than to describe the face of the little boy next to me, who, throughout the whole show, wore an expression of near comical wonder.
This original piece was devised and performed by the cousin duo Mathieson and Hunwicks from And On Theatre, and it is truly outside the box. The pace is brilliant, from the explosive opening through to the final skit of ‘let’s pretend!’ where the two grown men use the squashed box as an arcade dance mat. You can feel the electric buzz of the show pulsate around the space. The transitions are sickeningly slick; the two lads can transform the box from a dining room table to a steam train quicker than you can say styrofoam peanuts.
Mathieson and Hunwicks also show as much versatility as their cardboard companion. The pair jump through the hoops of multiple accents and physicalities with ease. Unfortunately ,the show itself did have a few flaws. The details behind Matheison’s character’s motivation to revert to his childlike self aren’t fully explained. Also, some of the references made in the TV sketches seemed to go straight over the heads of most of the parents and children in the audience I was in. But these were mere blemishes on what was otherwise a brilliant production.
I can’t think of a better way to recommend this show than to describe the face of the little boy next to me, who, throughout the whole show, wore an expression of near comical wonder. So if you’re free in the morning and are looking for a heartfelt show for all ages, I’d recommend Bits & Box. It’s the complete package.
