ED2016 4/5 Reviews ED2016 Theatre Reviews

Leaf by Niggle (Puppet State Theatre Company)

By | Published on Tuesday 23 August 2016

Leaf by Niggle Ed2016

As narrator Richard Medrington tells us from the off, if you came to this latest adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fiction expecting elves and orcs, you’ll be disappointed. Nevertheless, ‘Leaf by Niggle’, one of Tolkien’s lesser known stories, shares the hallmarks of his style that will be familiar to readers. Niggle is a fussy little painter and a procrastinator, who nevertheless has a vision and a destiny involving sacrifice and redemption. With engaging storytelling, Medrington brings Niggle’s journey to life, although the lengthy discussion of props is unnecessary and stretches the piece. Still, this touching tale, with autobiographical hints, is a perfect example of Tolkien’s belief in the significance of fairy tales.

Scottish Storytelling Centre, until 28 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Jane Berg]



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