Words: Alex Grunberg

4 stars

A heart-warming take on a classic piece of children’s literature, The Railway Children offers heart and charm. Following three children whose financial circumstances have changed drastically, but who nevertheless find hope in family and purpose through good deeds, this production is a gentle, engaging tale for families at the Fringe. 

It was lovely to see the children in the audience quiet as they became caught up in the rather serious subject matter of an imprisoned father and a persevering family, quite a feat for children’s theatre. And the show features a very strong cast, particularly the three leads (Oliver Byng, Katie Gourlay and Clare Louise Roberts) who play our child protagonists with professionalism and a refreshingly natural take on their characters, never dipping into caricature and never condescending to the audience. The material is treated with grace and respect.

Small musical moments offer variety in the storytelling, and the lighting and effects (achieved with minimal props) brings the black box set to life with a dream-like quality. The excellent costume design brings us right into the past and situates us nicely in time, complementing the performances with a nostalgic air. 

A solid, enjoyable adaptation for family audiences.

The Railway Children
C Venues, C Aurora, Main House
16.00
18-27 Aug