Four star rating In these dark heathen times, when parents are pestered for Bratz bling dolls and poop-a-scoop Barbie (yes, really), it was heart-warming to see a row of tiny, upturned faces enjoying the simpl

ROOM IN THE ARK

Little Angel Theatre, Islington

Four star rating

In these dark heathen times, when parents are pestered for Bratz bling dolls and poop-a-scoop Barbie (yes, really), it's heart-warming to see a row of tiny, upturned faces enjoying the simple magic of carved animals and wooden puppets.

Little Angel Theatre has adapted its show for older children to suit the wrigglier bottoms of a younger audience (two to five-year-olds).

The 45-minute piece tells the familiar Bible story of Noah in which performers Peter Savizon and Vanessa White-Smith sing simple, gospel-style songs a capella as they build the ark before our eyes. The storm is neatly realised with flashes of lightning and the performers rocking and spinning the boat around.

There is audience participation - clapping and singing along to Go Noah Go! - and those inventive touches characteristic of Little Angel shows that delight young audiences. The only criticism: it seemed a shame to have only carved wooden beasts rather than more animated animal puppets.

Until April 22.

Bridget Galton