Review – The Book of Everything

The Book of Everything is a touching balancing act between the harshness of life in post-war Amsterdam and the vibrant imaginary world of nearly-ten-year-old Thomas Klopper. Seen through the eyes of the lovable, inquisitive and idiosyncratic young protagonist, the juxtaposition of energetic theatrical style and heart-wrenching domestic realities will bring you to the verge of tears and the brink of laughter long after you’ve left the theatre.

Matthew Whittet plays Thomas Klopper, a nine-year-old who records his fantasies in “The Book of Everything”. He turns the pages of a giant pop-up book, leading us from scene to scene, sharing his personal tragedies and imagined experiences with the audience. Whittet’s performance is breath-taking. The innocence, tenderness and humour that radiate through his heightened childlike physicality quickly earn the love of the audience. His father, played expertly by Peter Carroll, is a strongly religious man who will not tolerate Thomas’ intangible philosophical ideals. Damaged by his experiences of the war he maintains violent control of the household with a terrifyingly brilliant coldness, although with moments of weakness that allow the audience and characters alike to sympathise for him despite his cruelty.

Julie Forsyth as Mrs Van Amersfoort is, as always, an absolute joy to watch. Her playfulness as the villianised witchy neighbour who reaches out to the fearful young Thomas is as hilarious as it is tragic. John Leary as casual Jesus, Genevieve Picot as the pants-wearing Aunty Pie, Alison Bell as the nasty older sister Margot, Claire Jones as the down-trodden mother, and Andrea Demetriades as sweet Eliza with the squeaky leather leg also give outstanding performances.

Special mention goes to musician, composer and cast-member Iain Grandage, who created and performed a delightful and uplifting score where he and the other cast-members were able to create a magical musical underlining of the piece.

Sidestepping blasphemy, The Book of Everything is a playful dig in Lord Jesus’ ribs, acknowledging that people have to take responsibility for their own actions, rather than hiding behind the Good Book. Full of unbridled childlike joy, this is a show that has as much to offer adults as it does children, maybe even more, reminding us to question the world around us, face up to fear and violence, and ultimately to seek happiness.