Review: The Boy At The Edge Of The Room

THE Forest Forge Theatre Company based in Ringwood, have done it again, bringing a tough, bitter-sweet story to life on the stage.

Inspired by Lucy Clifford’s 1882 story Wooden Tony, The Boy at the Edge of the Room, the play, written by Richard Conlon, is sensitively staged by Forest Forge’s artistic director Kirstie Davis in a production that illuminates autism with clarity.

The fast-paced fairytale focuses on the principle character Tony, who displays many of the classic traits of those on the autistic spectrum, but in a time when the condition was not recognised.

The audience is spellbound as they watch the world through Tony’s eyes and experience the confusion of thoughts that race around his mind like butterflies, rendering him paralysed in a world of expectations.

Tony just wants to sing.

The story portrays the struggle of Tony’s parents. The unconditional love and acceptance of his mother, the dichotomy of love and rage expressed by his father and the struggle their marriage endures as their deep-seated fears come to the surface.

When a mysterious ‘dealer’ offers Tony the chance to make his dream to sing come true, his mother must face a future without him, and the audience confronts an unsettling and moving ending.

The Boy at the Edge of the Room, which has been created with advice from Hampshire Autistic Society, is a moving examination of difference and acceptance, brought to life by an excellent cast of three through song, movement and puppetry.

For details about future performances call Forest Forge on 01425 470188 or go to forestforge.co.uk.

KAREN BATE