This term saw a new and exciting artistic direction for Cokethorpe Drama, marked by the blazing production values and mesmerising performance skills on display in The Box of Delights. Based on John Masefield’s 1935 novel, this adaptation’s story centres around two orphans who are given a box with supernatural powers by a mystical lady and ordered to save Christmas and to be on their guard, as ‘the wolves are running’. Along with their two best friends, the four children find themselves amid a centuries-old battle between two powerful sorcerers for the lives of their friends and even the fate of Christmas itself.
This enthralling production was rich in visuals and sound, as we were transported from magical forests to underground caverns. Many cast members played the vital role of puppeteers as bewitching new worlds unfolded before our eyes. With rabbits, butterflies, birds, ancient gods, as well as the tiny versions of the protagonists themselves, the physical puppeteering was expertly crafted and brought to life. There were also spellbinding sequences of shadow-puppetry, cleverly and deftly enacted by the cast to expound the backstory.
This was a stunning ensemble production, with jaw-droppingly beautiful scenes; a moving story of hope and friendship, played with commitment and professionalism by this huge and talented cast and crew. A full review of the production will be featured in the upcoming Ocellus.
