A well-intentioned but underwhelming one-performer show saved by Le Gateau Chocolat’s charm and dedication. It needs more imagination and polish to fulfil its potential as a family theatre standout.
Le Gateau Chocolat’s I WISH, co-created with Rachel Bagshaw and featuring music and lyrics by Seiriol Davies, is an ambitious reimagining of classic fairy tales like Snow White, Cinderella, and Peter Pan. However, despite its potential, the production falters in execution, leaving much to be desired.
The show, intended to modernise and diversify traditional stories, raises eyebrows with some of its choices. A key plot point involving a fairy godmother unaware that the princess playing Cinderella uses a wheelchair felt outdated and even insensitive. While this narrative misstep is eventually addressed, it sets an uneasy tone, making one question the underlying message. Shouldn’t story time for children reflect inclusivity from the outset, rather than using disability as a moment for dramatic correction?
At just 50 minutes, the production felt uninspired and lacked the spark needed to truly enchant. The narrative lacked depth, rendering it dull, and the music was unremarkable—marred further by technical glitches during the press night. Lighting design was another weak point; poor execution often left Le Gateau Chocolat in the shadows at crucial moments, diminishing the impact of their performance.
What salvaged the evening was Le Gateau Chocolat‘s undeniable charisma and talent. As the sole performer, they brought warm and infectious energy to the stage, captivating the young audience with humour and heart. Their care for the children in the room was evident, and they succeeded in bringing laughter and joy, even when the material fell flat.
Despite these bright spots, I WISH fell short of its promise as a reimagining of beloved tales. The production lacked the soul, whimsy, and thoughtful storytelling necessary to inspire its audience, particularly young viewers who might be experiencing theatre for the first time. A stronger focus on accessibility, innovation, and a more cohesive message would have elevated this effort from an interesting attempt to a truly magical experience.