A Whimsical, Family-Friendly Adventure
Treasure Island, a reimagining by Duncan McLean, based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic, offers a delightful blend of whimsy, humour, and heart, perfect for families seeking a festive theatre experience. Set in a home for reformed pirates, the show follows young Jim (Jade Chan) as he attempts to keep the mischievous residents in line by entertaining them with a retelling of the iconic pirate tale. What unfolds is a wonderfully playful production where the lines between storytelling and reality blur, inviting the audience into a world where even the simplest of objects can be transformed into magical props.
The staging, designed by Alex Berry, is ingeniously minimalist, with a tea trolley becoming a towering rock and a laundry pole doubling as a small boat. This creative simplicity allows for a sense of childlike imagination to permeate the entire show, and it’s impossible not to smile as the actors turn everyday items into fantastical objects with an infectious sense of wonder. The actors, who also play instruments, add a folky charm to the score, enhancing the show’s lighthearted tone and keeping the energy up throughout.
The lighting (by Colin Grenfell) is beautifully soft, with fairy lights creating a warm, inviting glow that enhances the overall charm of the show. The atmosphere is cozy yet vibrant, making it feel like the audience is joining in on a grand adventure, rather than merely watching from the sidelines.
While Treasure Island offers plenty of laughs and delightful moments, the pacing can sometimes feel a bit sluggish, particularly in the first act. Some lines linger just a bit too long, and paired with the occasional microphone level dip, cause a few jokes to miss their mark and the energy to dip in places. However, these moments are brief and do not detract too much from the overall enjoyment.
A true highlight is the puffin puppet, operated by Dylan Read, which is both charming and hilarious. With expert movement and impeccable comic timing, this endearing sidekick steals many scenes, leaving the audience both captivated and amused by its antics.
Under the direction of Wils Wilson, Treasure Island becomes more than just a retelling of a familiar story – it’s a chance to rediscover it through the lens of childlike exuberance and creativity. The show is a perfect fit for families, offering enough playful wit to engage both children and adults alike. Performed at the beautiful Edinburgh Lyceum Theatre, this is a must-see production that fills the season with warmth, joy, and a sense of wonder.
Treasure Island runs at the Lyceum until 4th January 2025.