Bristol Old Vic’s new musical version of Treasure Island is a proper family treat. Rather than drowning in spectacle or elaborate reinventions, this production focuses on what matters most. It tells the story. And tells it well.

Written by Jake Brunger with music by Pippa Cleary and directed by Paul Foster, the production smartly frames the show through a nod to traditional pub storytelling. There is something relaxing and almost Brechtian about it. No fuss, no clutter, just an invitation to gather round and listen. The result feels refreshing. So much children’s theatre tries to overcomplicate things. This one keeps its heart exactly where it should be, in the simple joy of a tale well told.

Tom Rogers’ set is outstanding. Layered and full of depth, it peels back again and again to reveal new worlds and surprises. Somehow it manages to be both authentic and practical, supporting the storytelling without overwhelming it. The costumes work in much the same way. Adidas clad pirates with Nike branded hats could easily have felt like a cheap modern update, but here it lands perfectly. It reinforces the idea that we are inside a story being shared in the room, rather than stranded in a forced contemporary retelling.

Performances throughout are lively and full of character. Colin Leggo’s Long John Silver isespecially strong, switching from friendly companion to calculating pirate with nothing more than a shift of look. It is a clever, controlled performance and one that gives the show real bite. Some characters feel less developed. Hands and Bones in particular seemed like roles with untapped potential. It does not derail anything, but it feels like a missed opportunity for more texture.

The cast of actor musicians brings the whole thing to life with real skill. Their playing adds a sea shanty flavour and a sense of shared ownership over the story. It feels organic, earthy and properly theatrical. Even Jayde Adams throws herself into the ensemble feel, triangle and all.

This is a warm and spirited Christmas production. It makes storytelling the centre of the experience and trusts its audience to come along for an adventure. Bristol Old Vic has created something charming, clever and full of heart.

Jack Maurice

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️