This Brothers Grimm tale, adapted by Mike Kenny, is an Easter treat.
Staged in the round with a revolve in the centre, the story is brought to everyone in a constantly changing way which adds to the fun.
It tells of the poor old shoemakers, shivering in the winter, no wood for the fire and nothing to eat, whose salvation comes in the form of elves.
The wee duo create some gorgeous footwear which gets the couple back on their feet.
The shoemakers make a reciprocal gesture and spring comes to brighten up everything.
Jemima Levick’s production has a magical feel from the moment it opens, with Francis O’Connor’s detailed set a joy to behold.
Rep stalwarts John Buick and Irene Macdougall play the devoted shoemakers, endearing themselves to the audience and evoking sympathy.
Kevin Lennon and Kirsty Malone are the elves in a pair of hilarious performances Smurf-like with their blue skin, the diminutive duo banter like naughty children in their own funny language.
Kevin Lennon’s timing and comic sense is to the fore, drawing hoots of mirth from all ages.
He is also composer for the show, which uses music to underpin the changing fortunes of the shoemakers.
There is an instant connection between cast and audience in the production which has a strong story to tell and does so in a totally absorbing way.
It is great to see children enjoying the show and hear them asking questions.
There is something magical about staging it in the round which makes an audience feel part of what is unfolding before them.
It also creates a shared intimacy between members of the audience.
The Rep knows children’s shows are not just for Christmas, and this is just the thing to celebrate the Easter holidays.
It is recommended for those aged four and over and is aimed at the younger ones, although adults in the audience were similarly delighted, judging by the facial expressions.
One final plea…any chance that mothers could stop doling out noisy crisps to their offspring to crunch throughout?
The Elves and The Shoemakers runs until Saturday.