Puppeteer Laura Bacon's one-off show at Haverhill Arts Centre showcased her abundant talent
The Haverhill Echo’s guest reviewer Roger McCartney popped along to the arts centre to see a one-off show by puppeteer Laura Bacon, and this is what he had to say about it.
I headed to Haverhill Arts Centre on Saturday night, not knowing what to expect.
An Everso Lovely Evening with Mavis was how it was billed, but having never seen a puppet show live before, I did not know what to anticipate.
I needn’t have worried though, for an ‘everso’ lovely evening is what we got.
Laura Bacon is superb as the puppeteer and creator of Mavis – the wily old Suffolk ‘gal’ in the form of a fox – and Laura’s rendition of the fast-declining Suffolk accent is spot on in terms of accuracy, and, at the same time, a joy to behold.
I was pleased to note, as she delighted and captivated the capacity audience, that once more, this wonderful venue continues to be a jewel in the crown of Haverhill.
The show is a homage to all things Haverhill and Suffolk in general, and was delivered cleverly with comedy, wit and energy.
Laura has an abundance of talent, as her previous BGT semi-final achievement testifies.
Her comedy and ability to ad-lib, while interacting with the guests and audience, were highlights for me.
During the show, you learn a lot about Haverhill, and I for one, think that Laura should now be presented with the freedom of the place, for services to the town.
The multi-talented host steps out from behind the puppet guise as well at times, and delivers, with aplomb, musical numbers with the equally gifted Kelly Mepham and Emily Mizen.
These Andrew Sisters-type-numbers are performed immaculately by the ‘Duddery Hill Dears’.
Difficult to know where to go next with the show. Maybe somewhere further afield, such as Toppesfield?
Take a bow Laura Bacon; look forward to your Freedom of Haverhill award, and please continue with your services to Suffolk, by keeping the old accent alive.
And in the process, we’ll have a roight ol’ larrrf. Yeep.
