A History of Scotland (in 60 Minutes or Less) Underbelly
Star Rating: ****
Beowulf Sweet@ECA
Star Rating: ***
Under the Dragon Moon C Venue
Star Rating: *****

CARMODY WILSON

A popular theme in this year's children's fringe is the rediscovering of old tales, whether they be from the realm of myth or from the annals of history.

Representing Scotland's complex and rich past could be a bit of a problem, especially with the proviso that it must be pared down and cleaned up for children.

But Sleekit Productions, with their simple, deconstructed approach, attack this task with energy, verve and a splash of kid-friendly humour in their production of A History of Scotland (in 60 Minutes or Less) at the Underbelly. Opening with a panoply of Scottish stalwarts such as Nessie, haggis and kilts, the troupe forces the audience to recognise the ridiculousness of such stereotypes.

Kyboshing this approach, the show reels in the opposite direction, playing at kings, queens, warriors and woebegone villains in a fresh, easy-going assembly of song and skit. Minimal sets and costumes are used to tell the larger-than-life tales of Mary, Queen of Scots, the jailbird King James, the theft of the Stone of Destiny, and myriad wars with Scotland's southern neighbour.

Across the pond (with brief journeys back) is the telling of the cross-channel Beowulf at Sweet@Edinburgh College of Art. This brave and bold choice for translation into children's theatre is even more so for also being a musical. With a mix of traditional and contemporary-sounding songs, the big talents that form Heart Off Guard Theatre Company by turns lulled the audience into sleepy contemplation or riled them into terror with their beautiful harmonising and soft, affecting voices.

Mum's The Word is a particularly wonderful song, bringing some much-needed fun into the moribund tale of the ancient kingdoms. The action does flag in parts where there is too much dialogue and too little action, but the cast are charming and the songs so well performed that this is trifling.

The Broadway-style finale would have been better done with a more period-friendly song, and the children's patience may be tried with so little to divert them in the way of laughs or fights but, overall, Beowulf is a grand attempt at bringing a terrific tale to the small stage.

Travelling a little farther east is I Theatre's production of Under the Dragon Moon, a wondrous and beautiful rendition of the myths and legends of China, India, Pakistan, Singapore and Japan.

The talented ensemble cast use music, dance and slapstick comedy to relate stories of caution and care to those lucky enough to be assembled before them. The actors are versatile, the stories simple and the result enchanting. Dynamic, imaginative and elegant, with enough laughs to keep kids giggling throughout the show, Under the Dragon Moon is a must for fans of history and imagination.