The Truth About Trees is a charming and gentle family theatre show aimed at children aged 5–8. Combining actors, puppets, shadows, and imaginative storytelling. It follows Alfie as he discovers more about trees, nature, and the importance of listening in the world around us.

The Box at Assembly George Square is an ideal venue for this intimate production. Small and cosy, it ensures that even the youngest audience members have a good view of the action. The simple set cleverly transforms from Alfie’s bedroom and school to a forest and Grandpa’s greenhouse, using familiar props such as a bed, shelves, and toy boxes. Everything is within easy reach of the performers, helping the story flow smoothly.

The three-strong cast are engaging from the moment they greet the audience. Costumes and props are explained to establish the different characters, while Alfie, in his school uniform, is immediately recognisable and endearing. His growing love for trees is at the heart of the story, and his innocent determination to protect nature makes him an appealing character for young audiences.

Alex Zawalyski’s script is original, varied, and highly imaginative. Alfie learns from his grandpa that paper, when made correctly, can carry the story of the tree it came from. When he discovers that a nearby woodland is going to be cut down to make way for the building, he realises he needs to do something. The story explores themes of conservation without ever becoming heavy-handed.

The creative staging has a lovely handmade quality. I particularly enjoyed the Alfie puppet, although I’m not sure why we needed two Alfie’s. The children didn’t question the duplication, though. There is also a lovely touch of nostalgia in the use of an overhead projector and acetate sheets.

The music remains soft and gentle throughout, making this a particularly comfortable experience for children who are sensitive to loud noises. Facts about trees are woven naturally into the story, including the fascinating fact that of around one million acorns an oak produces during its lifetime, only one will become a tree.

At around 45 minutes, the show is a great length for younger children. Our mixed-age audience, including a toddler, remained enthralled throughout. Best of all, every child gets to take home a piece of seed-embedded paper, with instructions to write their own story and plant it.

A sweet, imaginative and thoughtful introduction to live theatre, with plenty for families to enjoy together

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

Four Stars

Playing at: – The Box at Assembly George Square until 30^th August

Tickets and further information can be found following the link below

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-truth-about-trees

Credits:

Laura Hounsell directs

Alex Zawalnyski writer/ Alfie

Morgan Ferguson

Niamh Blane