International recognition for Exeter-based theatre company

Theatre Alibi’s latest show will be touring to Exeter, following performances in Philadelphia, where the company has been selected from competition across the world to perform at the International Performing Arts for Youth Showcase.

The Exeter-based theatre company’s adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s I Believe in Unicorns will be performed at Exeter Northcott Theatre in February 2015.

Set in Croatia, Morpurgo’s tale is inspired by a visit to Russia where he witnessed a standing ovation for an old man who had rescued all the books from a library when it caught fire. Moved by this experience, he wrote the story of Tomas Porec who hates books until he meets the Unicorn Lady, an inspirational librarian, who reels him in with her irresistible tales.

Ben Worth, who plays Tomas in the play, also struggled with reading as a child. Ben said: “It took me a long time to learn to read and just like Tomas I thought books weren't for me. As I got older and my reading improved I started to fall in love with stories and now storytelling is what I do best. I hope that I Believe in Unicorns will inspire lots of children to start reading so they can enjoy stories as much as I do now.”

The show includes storytelling, puppetry and live music, influenced by the Balkans and specially composed for violin, electric guitar and accordion.

Theatre Alibi is best known for productions which are designed for children but also appeal to adults. Earlier this year, the company’s success was recognised by Arts Council England who made a three-year funding award to the organisation.

Michael Morpurgo said: “Theatre Alibi has been responsible for some of the most vital and innovative work in British theatre in recent years.” Of I Believe in Unicorns, he added, “It was adapted and played quite beautifully. A sheer joy.”

I Believe in Unicorns is at Exeter Northcott Theatre from February 12 to 15. Booking information is available on the Exeter Northcott Theatre website: http://www.exeternorthcott.co.uk/i-believe-in-unicorns