What I liked
This show is such a ride. Benjamin McFadden did an incredible job adapting and directing this reimagining. It somehow feels big and sweeping while still being scrappy and inventive. The use of puppetry, movement, and ensemble narration makes the story feel alive and theatrical in the best way. I loved the bustling, chaotic scenes of 1800s London just as much as the strange, dreamlike future. With only a handful of set pieces and costumes, the cast made each shift feel real and grounded. The puppeteers were fully visible, but instead of being distracting, it added to the magic. The Weena puppet, in particular, moved with so much grace and personality that you totally forget she’s not a real being. Also, major shoutout to the Editor character, whose comic timing was such a fun foil to the buttoned-up Professor.
What I didn't like
No notes. Time well spent.
My overall impression
The Time Machine is bold, inventive, and just plain fun. This gender-bent, ensemble-driven take on the classic sci-fi novel breathes new life into the story, while also tossing in a few modern winks around class, power, and control. It’s part period drama, part dystopian adventure, part puppet fever dream and somehow it all works. The lighting and sound design during the time travel sequences were especially cool, as was the slow-mo time warp at the beginning. The cast’s popcorn-style narration kept the pace moving and the energy high. Whether you’re a fan of the original book or just in the mood for a fresh theatrical experience, The Time Machine is a blast. Do yourself a favor and SEE THIS SHOW before time runs out!
