A little younger than the targeted audience, my little princess (aged just 16 months), first-time theatre goer, gave Bed Time her very own positive review. Laying down like a star, with the twirling glitter ball making patterns on her fluffy coat and purple boots, she refused to leave, making us the last out.
The supply of colour-in sheets and toys kept the children busy until they were invited into the studio. Note: prams were left downstairs with limited space just inside the front door at the Burton Taylor Studio.The gathering space is very cosy too. Though the studio itself has plenty of room.
'Moon River' was crooned while families of twos and threes entered the theatre for Bed Time. This show is listed for an audience of 2-4 years olds though I think a little younger would appreciate it too. The show was very child centred, a credit to Toby Hulse (who was himself very discreetly enjoying this performance). Picture many red and green pillows strewn on the floor and pyjama dressed actors (Darren Seed and Millie Corser) waving and chatting with eager and appreciative little guests before the show began. Seating was provided around the edge of the studio space for adults, happy to watch from a distance. Others got fully involved and sat amongst the pillows enjoying the show as much as their children did. It was a quiet snoozy, relaxing, feeling all round. At an hour long, the clever comedic acting, singing and role play including miming was a treat not to be missed.
“Goodnight Sweetheart, it's time to go", my little princess waved. Darren played ukulele and Millie harmonised in their storytelling. Together these two actors were convincingly in character as two children preparing to go to bed. Audience participation was willingly forthcoming. One child without prompting told the actors, “Take off your shoes". Later in the show, another suggested, “Take off your clothes." A little voice called out, “Wake up Millie" in response to her pose following “Twinkle Twinkle". One child walked to his mum at the back of the studio to tell her,“ I like their dancing ".
Ladder scenes, pretend cooking and dancing to “Boogie Fever" got the place rocking. It has it all and my little princess was clearly a fan of the sparkle glasses Darren wore in one scene, as she spotted them under the quilt when the show had finished.
If ever there was a reason to take yourself to the theatre with your mother's group this would be it. Or if grandparents want an afternoon out with their grandchildren. Just drop off the pushchair elsewhere first. The audience's laughter was real and infectious. Window scenes, bunk bed antics, dance and stretch moves with bedding made everyone smile and giggle with glee. What a luxury to review a show in this manner and the only thing Millie and Darren forgot was to brush their teeth!