Can there be a more inclusive, more inspiring and more welcoming place than the Chickenshed theatre in north London which seeks to use theatre to change lives. From the moment you arrive the welcoming front of house staff , excellent cafe and lively Foyer atmosphere start to deliver on its ethos and create the environment to encourage diversity, families and the whole community to engage with their work.
Their latest offering is a perfect fit for their philosophy. Mr Stink is a well spoken but smelly vagabond, he does not like to be called a tramp, who is secretly adopted by a twelve year old girl and accommodated in the garden shed. It is based on David Walliams book of the same name and he was on hand to endorse the production and personally greet every child in the audience on the opening night . It has the feel of The Twits combined with Mary Poppins , as it explores the impact he has on the local community he is camping out in. It is a book and play aimed firmly at a young audience but also charms the parents and grandparents in the audience who will recognise the family tensions created by parents ambition and careers. It reflects strongly on inclusivity as Mr Stink can't be judged on how he looks or smells but on how he thinks , cares and influences those he meets.
