We took our boys to see Hairy Maclary at the Fringe today. We'd heard good things about it and the boys both enjoyed it. It was nicely put together and the kids in the audience responded enthusiastically to the familiar characters. We have the first Hairy Maclary book which is a joy to read, but watching the performance made me reflect that it is the combination of language, rhythm and pictures, rather than the story, that makes it so pleasurable and the show suffered a bit from a lack of plot.
The show was fun but it couldn't match some other things we've seen for charm and imagination. We saw the lovely Potato Needs a Bath at the Imaginate Festival earlier in the year. It was quirky and fun and had the audience transfixed. I'd also like to try Julia Donaldson's Stick Man which has been getting great reviews.
After Hairy Maclary we ventured into the amazing Mirazozo, a giant inflatable structure of domes and tunnels, illuminated by natural light. It was a fascinating construction, using natural light to reflect different colours and patterns. Apparently the designers hope it will provide a place of quiet contemplation. Mmm...I can see why, but only if they ban small children. If my toddler's amazed and joyful reaction is anything to go by, for them it's more like soft play on acid.
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