The king of broken things (Photo via woordfees.co.za)
I was impressed by the deep themes and messages embedded in this children’s theatre piece. The king of broken things is an examination of what whole, perfect and pretty means – and how this is better (or not) than being broken. Can broken things, broken hearts, broken people be mended? And if so, do you repair them to the state they were in before breaking? Perhaps it is stronger or better if the item finds a new purpose. Japanese culture draws strongly on referencing their respect for beauty within imperfections. All of this teaches kids that flaws can be beautiful – a lovely message.
My six-year-old niece mostly enjoyed the show, but struggled with the layered message and the length (50 minutes is quite long, and there is no music or audience interaction). She did find the idea that orange is the colour of joy wrong (clearly, it is yellow), and also quickly informed me that the robot was being moved by strings (it was). She got a little bored around the 30-minute mark, but was drawn back in by the end. Dealing with issues like broken homes in children’s theatre is important, but I felt that it was a bit complex and heavy here, considering the age group of the audience. An age bracket should be indicated clearly on the programme.
The stage design is magical. The “broken things” that are brought to life with clever effects really draw the kids in and bring the world to life. The “kingdom” is a second character, with the props becoming more and more animated as the play progresses. Cara Roberts gives an energetic performance. It is a wonderful watch.
Lees ook:
Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees 2024: Exit/Exist – an Instagram review
Hollywood at Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees 2024: Glitz, glam and razzle-dazzle – an Instagram review
Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees 2024: Othello – an Instagram review
Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees 2024: Hoe het dit skielik laat geword? – ’n resensie