Leeds-based Fidget Theatre’s latest production sees them moving out of a conventional theatre setting and into Leeds Central Library. But there are no librarians looking over their glasses here instructing us to be silent, and the shelves of books are left behind as we are greeted by Mr Dazzle (Luke Dickson) and invited to take a seat or sit on the floor.

Fidget Theatre specialises in plays for children under 10, and Mr. Dazzle excels at getting them in the right mood for the story they are about to see unfold before them. When we are all settled and ready, Mr Dazzle disappears to be replaced by Elf Pip (Timothea Ibitoye) and Elf Dorrit (Charlie Limm), and the story can really begin.

In a world where joy has gone, Father Christmas sets the elves the task of spreading joy before Christmas can begin. Pip and Dorrit leave the elf realm to visit Mr Dazzle, who used to run a circus but has become increasingly sad since it closed. In the village where he lives, no one likes to see people smiling or enjoying themselves; even whistling is frowned on. Pip and Dorrit try everything to make Mr Dazzle smile, without him knowing they are elves, but everything seems to fail.

Eventually he realises they are elves, and he agrees to help them. The plan is hatched that Mr Dazzle will bring back his circus, but where are all the acts he used to have? Where are the acrobats, the clowns, the jugglers, and the strongman? Pip and Dorrit break the golden rule and take Mr Dazzle back to their realm, where Mr Dazzle meets all the other elves. Time for audience participation with everyone trying out their circus skills before everyone returns to the village to put on a show to spread joy before it’s too late, but will they succeed?

Written and directed by Ruth Cooper-Rowan and Andrea Heaton this is a play not only for the young but also the young at heart and it is a joy to see so many children enthralled by the story, and no-one cares if little Johnny wants to go to his mum, the cast and the rest of the audience understand. Fidget always produce a show perfect for introducing little ones to the magic of the theatre and this is no exception but here we have another twist, the library setting means there is a chance to look at the books and perhaps spark a little interest in reading (something that we are told is in decline) as well as the wonderful architecture and mosaics in the this beautiful building.

A play not to be missed for your youngsters leading up to Christmas, and at just 60 minutes long, the perfect length to hold the attention of everyone. With several performances already sold out, you will need to book your tickets soon to avoid disappointment. Introducing them to theatre at an early age and helping them to understand spreading joy at Christmas.


The Elves and the Storyteller Leeds Central Library until 31st December