A song thrush sings above a delicately lit stage. As we settle, we enter a calmer world – albeit one with its own energy and complexity. Welcome to the forest; and to its myriad inhabitants, especially woodpeckers, mycelium, leaves, slaters and acorns. The early life of the last of these forms the story, as it learns and grows, eventually to become an emergent tree. The puppetry here is top notch, alongside vocalisation, music and the skilled use of technology to present the intricacies of nature. Though at times the varying forms compete for attention, this is a skilful, imaginative and engaging piece which finds a path between education and enthralment, anthropomorphism and mystery. The children in our audience were captivated.

Pleasance Dome, until 18 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Alan Cranston]