Life was so much simpler back then… wasn’t it? It’s an hour that provokes reminiscences of being back in primary school, as writer-performer Kate Ireland looks back at her time as a teaching assistant and the behavioural strategies used in primary education. ‘Golden Time’ is a cheery show that generates smiles all around the room, but also tears from some: the story clearly resonated and warmed everyone’s hearts. The impactful and personal script handles its themes well – with wit and passion – in a show that blends spoken word and audience interactions, while the use of projections and sound complement the wonderful performance. Perfectly capturing some of the challenges of simply living, it’s a show worthy of four shiny gold stars.

Pleasance Dome, until 25 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Andrew Melrose]