Review: Tom Gates Live on Stage!
My son loves Liz Pichon’s Tom Gates books so when I heard there was a stage version on tour I knew we’d have to go.
We saw the show at the Kings Theatre in Southsea last night – and wow, what a treat. It brilliantly brings the books to life and was hugely enjoyable.
A very likeable young cast bring the characters to life with energy and panache. Full marks for Matthew Chase as Tom, ably supported by Matthew Gordon, Ashley Cousins, Amy Hargreaves, Daniel Harkin, Alice Redmond, Justin Davies and Ebony Wong.
The fast-paced script by Liz Pichon and director Neal Foster is clever and witty, amusing both young and older alike.
I was looking forward to seeing how they would adapt the author’s highly visual stories for the stage and the answer is – with style and ingenuity. Great work by designer Jackie Trousdale.
I might sound ancient for saying it, but it really is clever what they can do on stage these days and, in the case of this show, they have combined the actors with animation, which was both technically brilliant and highly entertaining.
Composer Mark Flannery’s music is really catchy and fun and all mixed together it’s a perfect feelgood show. It really is a cracking night out for children – and their parents will have a great time too 
Just one word of warning though: The show might leave you wanting to eat lots of chips – and biscuits, even fig rolls
Tom Gates Live on Stage is on in Southsea until Sunday and then continues its tour to theatres across the country. Full list of dates can be found by clicking here.
Steve’s rating: ★★★★★
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Dorling Kindersley are masters at publishing beautifully illustrated books and this one is no exception. A fabulous book for inspiring new ideas from your young builders. Highly recommended.