★★★★½ World premiere reveals the magic and mystery of beautiful things.

Dazzeland, Myer Centre, Adelaide
27 February, 2016

A funny thing happens on the way to see The Young King. There are preparations to be made, and the adventure that begins before we’ve even reached the space that formerly occupied the amusement park, Dazzeland, feels almost like a show in itself. Curiosities are presented, and choices are to be made, and through corridors, robing rooms, and the back of a wardrobe, mystery abounds. We are safe in the hands of the quirky bellhops who guide us; they too are royalists.

We are invited to an audience with the Young King on the eve of his coronation. Tim Overton is perfectly cast as his majesty. He chats warmly with his loyal subjects as they enter; even those who’ve already forgotten the correct way to greet this royal. Director Andy Packer grants audiences access to the characters, giving them an immersive experience before the scripting has begun in earnest. It’s a clever device to ensure investment in the action, and a joy to observe.

Jacqy Phillips engages from the first. A storyteller’s storyteller, she shares the narrative and characters with Overton; the pair’s...