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Grosvenor Park open air theatre, ChesterThere is a fresh twist in this adaptation of Clive King’s book but its important message is bogged down in a long-winded productionJessica Swale first adapted Clive King’s children’s book for a production at Grosvenor Park in 2016. She has returned to it with a twist. This time, she has written it for two deaf actors in the leads and a production, by Harry Jardine, that is signed throughout.Now Barney (Mia Ward) is a boy whose use of BSL excludes him not only from playground friendships but also from a consistent standard of education. It also puts pressure on big sister Lou (Haylie Jones) who has to act as an interpreter instead of getting on with life as a 10-year-old. Things change when Barney stumbles into the dump and meets caveman Stig (Alex Nowak), whose Neanderthal grunts present communication challenges of their own.At Grosvenor Park, Chester, until 29 August. Continue reading...