The Savage: Live Theatre, Newcastle Quayside

CARNEGIE Medal-winning author David Almond’s illustrated short story, The Savage, was first read on TV by Kevin Whately. It wouldn’t keep still though. “The Savage leapt to life and bared his chest,” explains Almond, a native Geordie who has split open unsettling events with an imaginary axe to expose the strange world of a troubled young man.

Alison Ashton’s atmospheric design involves precariously-balanced, cramped accommodation, set above a secret labyrinth of dark corners, decaying brickwork and the detritus of an old Newcastle.

Blue Baker is sitting at the kitchen table with his school work, his teacher wants him to write a story, but he clutches his red exercise book close to his chest. In his imagination Blue creates a secret wild character, one full of anger and thoughts of revenge for his father’s recent death and to get back at the neighbourhood bully, Hopper.

Multiple characters inhabit Blue’s life and with just four brilliant actors, Dani Arliington, Kate Okello, Adam Welsh and in the lead role, Dean Bone, the Jekyll and Hyde story unfolds as the menacing character of the savage develops.

Beth Brennan’s original music is haunting, Lee Proud’s choreography almost tribal and with audio visuals from Novak, there’s perhaps a little too much going on. Dean Bone is outstanding as the boy and the savage and Almond’s writing is superb, and although the savage is the metamorphosis of Blue’s inner turmoil, I think the character would have more impact as a separate, lurking, physical presence throughout.

* Runs until July 23. Box Office: 0191-232-1232 or live.org.uk

Helen Brown