ALICE IN WONDERLAND / LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD
Sherman Theatre, Cardiff
Both until Sat 29 Dec
The Christmas plays at the Sherman promise to be extra special this year, not just because they offer the kind of magic and entertainment that has come to be expected of the theatre’s festive offerings, but because they are the last to be overseen by award-winning Artistic Director, Rachel O’Riordan.
Since taking over the Sherman’s helm in 2014, O’Riordan has lent her deft director’s eye to a wealth of critically acclaimed productions, including Killology, a collaboration with London’s Court Theatre and the recipient of an Outstanding Achievement Olivier Award. In just four years she has placed Cardiff firmly on the theatre map of the UK, winning the Sherman the title of Regional Theatre of the Year 2018, the first of such accolades in Wales.
However, when looking at the long list of productions O’Riordan has helped to create, her captivating Christmas performances stand out as having a special place in the hearts of Cardiff’s community, and will be sorely missed when she becomes Artistic Director of London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre in February 2019.
The last two years have provided exceptional offerings in The Borrowers and The Wind In The Willows, both of which received rave reviews and drew crowds of all ages. Continuing the theme of adapting classic children’s literature for the stage, the 2018 productions of Little Red Riding Hood and Alice in Wonderland promise signature sing-alongs and spellbinding stories.
The former is ideal for younger audiences and is available in both Welsh and English language performances. Follow Little Red as she winds her way through the woods, pausing to pick flowers on her way to Granny’s house where the Wolf lies waiting. Although O’Riordan isn’t playing a direct hand in LRRH, she is directing AIW. Created for slightly older children and for families, we’ll dive down the rabbit hole into a colourful, curious world of iconic characters. Featuring a star cast of actor-musicians, magical sets and mad-as-a-Hatter costumes, the production promises to be the perfect send off for the talented O’Riordan. AMY TIFFIN
Tickets: LRRH £9; AIW £16-£26. Info: 029 2064 6900 / www.shermantheatre.co.uk