I had a book of Greek myths when I was a child which I loved. Whether you like Icarus – as an adult that is – will depend upon your propensity to believe in stories like these: talking trees, a falling star, and a fire bird. Icarus will take young and old upon the kind of journey you used to take as a child.

The circus element of Icarus adds sophistication to this production. It’s a brilliant idea, the aerial work slotting into the story well, even if there are some awkward transitions at times. This production flows best when the leads are telling a story and others are performing a corresponding act. Otherwise, there is an empty pause whilst the performers stir themselves which detracts from the illusion they’ve built. The aerial acts are exciting, but furthermore just make sense: Icarus flying, the phoenix spinning wildly like a fireball, and the falling star on her silks like the tail trailing behind it. But there is one routine between Icarus (Lewis Davidson) and the Star (Hattie Gregory) which is so elegant, the way in which they mirror and support one another’s bodies is a real metaphor for their love. It’s simply a shame that they cannot aim higher in their limited space and show off their talents on a larger, grander scale in this grand tale.

Icarus, we all know, is the boy who flew too close to the sun which melted his wings. Icarus picks up where he has fallen to earth found by Guy (Gavin Maxwell) a man that was trapped on this deserted island. Both of them dream of flying, and have their reasons; so that Icarus may find the fallen star he fell in love with, and so that Guy may find his lost sister. It is a purposeful story for all the fantasy, and acted convincingly by everyone. Maxwell it must be said is a little forced and fidgety where Davidson is more relaxed and therefore easier to watch. Although they aren’t around for long, I must also say the physicality of the crows is brilliantly accurate and funny. They are complimented by the delightful use of puppetry in this show; a little monkey, a wolf, and other birds roam this island too, and these simple puppets move believably and are an enchanting element for younger audiences.

This is a production which has left spectators divided, I’d say avoid it if you can’t believe in flying men and singing trees without an explanation. This is a magical myth for big imaginations.

**** – 4/5 stars

Icarus: A Story of Flight is playing at C eca until 27 August as part of the Edinburgh Festival. For more information and tickets, see the Edinburgh Fringe website.