An immediate standout of Moominvalley in November is its set, designed alongside expressive costumes by Lu Herbert. Where Herbert’s miniature Moominhouse stands surrounded by trees and with enlarged windows to allow a simple revolve to act as a magnificent entry into the homestead, they have perfectly captured the illustrated delights that have long been the franchise’s signature. Herbert’s bridge, also scaled down to suggest the winningly twee nature of the valley, becomes all the more effective for the much-discussed stream running beneath it, painted along the leaf-strewn artistry that makes up the stage floor. From the moment the audience enters the space, they are entrenched in an illustrated and elegant world of whimsy, and more than ready to accept a world in which six actors are actually six absurd creatures searching high and low for their Moomintroll friends.” – All That

“The rest of the stage set consists of a colourful tower representing the round, blue Moominhouse, which can be spun round to reveal a homely interior with a wood-burning stove. Lu Herbert’s set and costume designs have a beautifully simple, folk-tale feel.” – The Reviews Hub

“Moominvalley In November, truly transforms the space of ‘Upstairs At The Gatehouse’ into a quaint and magical land. Featuring a babbling brook, a creaky forest, a rickety bridge, and a charming little cottage; you immediately get the sense that you’ve entered an entirely different universe (set & costume design by Lu Herbert).” – London Theatre Reviews

“The slick production zips along like swirling autumn leaves, creating a colourful watchable experience underpinned by quite profound questions…successfully echoing the autumn weather brewing outside the comforting hidey-hole of this welcoming little theatre while musicians are snuggled under crochet blankets.” – Musical Theatre Review