Entertaining trip back in time

The Horrible Histories formula is a tried and tested one, and has proved wildly successful over the years, in the fields of books, TV and now on stage.

So if you enjoyed Birmingham Stage Company’s previous Horrible Histories show - Barmy Britain - at Derby Theatre last year, then this latest offering at the venue would have been right up your street too.

Switching between Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders on alternate nights, this reviewer saw Groovy Greeks - and an enjoyable time was had by all.

As before, an energetic cast of four are put through their paces, showing off their singing, dancing and acting skills while playing multiple roles in a whistle-stop comic journey through some of the more memorable moments from the story of the Ancient Greeks.

Theseus and the Minotaur, the wooden horse of Troy, the battles between the Greeks and Persians, and much more besides are packed into this relatively short but very lively show and full marks go to the cast of Hannah Boyce, Laura Dalgleish, Charlie Buckland and Ashley Bowden for their whole-hearted, energetic and entertaining efforts.

There’s even a vocal appearance by Horrible Histories creator Terry Deary as Zeus, one of the many nice touches in the informative and enjoyable script by writer/director Neal Foster.

All in all, this is another success for the Birmingham Stage Company team, which here includes composer Matthew Scott, choreographer Kenn Oldfield, lighting designer Jason Taylor, and designer Jaqueline Trousdale.

Horrible Histories: Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders is on at Derby Theatre until Saturday, May 9. Call the box office on 01332 593939.