The zippy, zappy bestest everest kids' show to hit town this summer has got to be
Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play. Based on the original books by
Lauren Child, which were then spun into a BBC TV series, this stage show is the chance to finally see the characters live before your very eyes. With three shows a day from 20th December 2011 - 8th January 2012, the
Arts Centre's Playhouse Theatre will be brimming with all things Charlie and Lola.
Charlie and Lola
The play itself consists of a magical mix of puppetry, live action and music, complete with an over-riding backing track with the original children's voices animating the characters. With Charlie and Lola milling around as life-sized cut-outs, it is as if they have leapt right out of the books and onto the stage. A very tight-knit ensemble of four puppeteers appear and disappear like clockwork, as the story unfolds as if in mini episodes. As always, Charlie has to keep his more airy-fairy younger sister into line, as she refuses to go to bed or tidy her messy room or take her bath. All the usual suspects turn up, such as Charlie's Rocket, Ellie the Elephant and Soren Lorenson, amongst many others.
Lola has a whale of a time
What is particularly outstanding about the show, is the snappy pace and constant surprises it produces. The puppeteers must be congratulated for never missing a beat as they juggle a plethora of props and effortlessly navigate their way through such intricate choreography. It is this precision which keeps the audience engaged throughout, coupled with the very fun interactive moments which have even the littlest members of the audience jumping out of their seats and marvelling in wonderment at the magic. Indeed, it is not only the little kids, but the grown-up ones too who giggle along, almost in conversation with the characters on stage.
With a vibrant, highly effective set design and incredible puppetry skills on display,
Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play is an absolutely, positively, everso wonderful must-see this summer. Do book your tickets fast as it packs out.
