|
|
|
|
|
There’s a Monster in Your Show Coventry Belgrade ***** There’s a Monster in Your Show arrived at the Belgrade Theatre celebrating its 100th venue milestone since it commenced in 2023. Adapted from the bestselling children’s series by Tom Fletcher, the show transforms the interactive spirit of the books into a tightly paced, musical led stage adventure. The premise is simple, a well-planned performance is derailed when Little Monster bursts from the pages of its book and insists on taking centre stage. Soon, Monster recruits a trio of friends, including Dragon, Alien and Unicorn to help get the show back on track, with predictably chaotic and comic results. What distinguishes this production is the calibre of the creative team behind it. Presented by MEI Theatrical, the company responsible for bringing family favourites such as Twirlywoos Live, Sarah & Duck and The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show to the stage, the show benefits from extensive expertise in translating beloved brands into live theatre.
It is produced by Millennium Entertainment International and directed by Miranda Larson, whose previous stage adaptations include The Christmasaurus and the global YouTube phenomenon Little Baby Bum. The adaptation is by Zoe Bourn (known for stage versions of Thomas & Friends, Fireman Sam and Mr Men Little Miss), with design by Laura McEwen and puppets created by Keith Frederick. Puppet direction comes from Roman Stefanski, associate director at Polka Theatre, with Katie Haygarth serving as Associate Director. The result is a production that is visually bold and technically assured, its bright, colourful aesthetic captures the illustrations that first captivated young readers. On stage, an accomplished ensemble of actor-puppeteers bring the mayhem to life. Andrew Cullimore (Sarah and Duck, The Smurfs, The Very Hungry Caterpillar), Charlie Daniels (Hey Duggee, Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday, His Dark Materials for the BBC), Vinnie Monachello (Hey Duggee: The Live Theatre Show, Bedknobs and Broomsticks UK & Ireland tour, In The Night Garden Live), Ben Murrell (In The Night Garden Live, Twirlywoos Live, Elmer and the Patchwork Elephant, Goosebumps Alive) and Sarah Palmer (Oi Frog and Friends Live, Hey Duggee! The Live Theatre Show) demonstrate impressive dexterity, shifting seamlessly between performance and puppetry. Remarkably, the colourful cast of creatures, alongside Charlie at the heart of the action is managed by just four visible performers at any one time, a feat requiring precision, stamina and exacting coordination. The mechanics remain invisible to its young audience, who respond with pure delight to each new character reveal. In a performance that is just under an hour, it keeps the attention of its young audience. Songs are catchy and energetic, encouraging plenty of audience participation. The interactivity feels integral without being overwhelming and children are invited to shout, sing and join in as the story unfolds. With themes of teamwork and friendship, There’s a Monster in Your Show may celebrate mischief, but its success rests firmly on disciplined artistry. A fantastic example of contemporary family theatre delivered with imagination and technical finesse. An entertaining, fun filled experience for all the family to enjoy with the monster bursting in tp 21-02-26 Emily Armstrong 18-02-26 |
|
|
|
