Benjamin and Me

Benjamin and Me is presented by Whiskey and Boots as part of the Awesome International Festival for bright young things. Essentially really good storytelling, this low tech (apart from some cool lighting and smoke effects), theatre production is very simple theatre with a reliance on a good story and a dynamic actor.

Writer/Director/Performer Mark Storen tells a wonderfully complex story about a boy and his dog, that combines science fiction with steam-punk, boys’ own adventure and a touch of international espionage.

Its success relies chiefly on Storen's ability to engage his young audience, as he takes them on a wonderful journey, completely underscored by self-accompanied ukulele. Another important element is engaging child-like illustrations by Jacinta Larcombe that help add colour and life.

Young fans of 'Andy Griffiths' style writing will appreciate this adventurous story with a lovely sense of the bizarre. A great way to spend an hour of the school holidays.

Kimberley Shaw