So, it is a pleasure to see him here as Tom Oakely, on ordinary man from a small village who has faced personal tragedies, and is obviously still haunted by them. Initially reluctant to take on the role of temporary guardian, Mr Ford Davies's Tom quickly demonstrates a kindly and compassionate nature and touching concern for William.
Yes, of course, there is a large dollop of sentimentality in this play and, yes, it is sad, very sad in places. Death looms large throughout as we experience the brutal finality of war where friends, neighbours and relatives meet untimely and unexpected ends.
In many ways, 'Goodnight Mr Tom' is a powerful learning experience in terms of both the historical context and the horrors of war and worth seeing for those aspects alone. But it is also a totally engrossing and compelling story that is endearing, heartwarming, touching, tender and ultimately uplifting. And you cannot wish for much more than that! To get the latest news, reviews, interviews, new show alerts and ticket offers, sign up to our weekly newsletter.
Skip to main content. My Account. Goodnight Mister Tom. Time Out says 3 out of 5 stars. We know this city. Do you? The acting is faultless by the entire cast, adults and children alike.
The animals in this show are played by puppeteers, something becoming increasingly more popular since The Lion King and War Horse came to the west end. The only thing I can mark this show down for is the song that is sung to send the children off back home to London. Cleverly staged for just 9 weeks in the west end before heading out on tour, it makes no pretense to be a glitzy west end show but is something that deserves to be seen by everyone during this short time. Angus Jackson's swift direction demands concentration from adults who allow their minds to wander, but the fast pace is sure to grip children.
The design by Robert Innes Hopkins responsible for the wonderfully inventive Swallows and Amazons at the Bristol Old Vic in captures the rural feel of Tom's home and the urban griminess of London. The magic is in the details: the posters on the wall, "Eat Less Bread" and "Air Raid Wardens"; a visible caking of dust as Tom shows William into a room once used by his late wife; and a lively use of puppets as props.
In the countryside, William meets fluttering birds and leaping squirrels operated by rods. The second half features the dingiest of dungeons William's London home , where the entire floor is lifted up by chains. With its great rumbles and clunks, this is truly frightening. Three children are taking it in turns to play William and his best friend, the spirited and just slightly pretentious Zach, during the run. Ewan Harris as William delivers his lines with clarity, and conveys his character's awkwardness and desire to please effectively.
William Price, as Zach, is pure joy to watch. He's a burgeoning talent. The chemistry between Ford Davies and Harris has yet to develop, but there are many weeks left.
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