By Graham Hiley.
If you are looking to give your youngsters a gentle introduction to theatre, then The Three Little Pigs will have them squealing with delight.
This charming production in the intimate setting of Chichester’s Minerva Theatre is perfect for children aged up to around seven – and for their parents too.
With plenty of pig puns like Hogs and Kisses, the script is clever enough to keep older kids engaged while the catchy songs, colourful costumes and neatly choreographed dancing will have the younger ones entranced.
Their attention was held by the energetic acting from the five-strong cast. Theyhuffed and they puffed and they brought the house down!
Hogging the limelight was Jack Wilkinson who hammed it up as the Big Bad Wolf. His big musical number had the children cheering – as did his eventual demise. Sorry for the spoiler!
Sam Mellows, Iona Crampton and Joe Thompson-Oubari brought home the bacon as the Three Pigs Bar, Bee and Q after being sent to live alone by their mother Paula James.
She gently explained all children eventually have to leave home and live independently. Try telling that to my 33-year-old son!
There were other worthy messages about sustainability and protecting the environment from pig-headed profiteers – and of course there were the obligatory fart jokes. For all the wit and humour, these still get the biggest laughs.
The award-winning partnership of George Stiles (music) and Anthony Drewe (book and lyrics) made this a delightful show under the careful direction of Jade Lewis.
With a cute and colourful set design, this Unicorn Theatre and Chichester Festival Theatre production is captivating. At an hour long, it is just right for little ones.
There were Primary School parties, mums and pre-schoolers and even a few toddlers accompanying brothers and sisters – all immaculately behaved.
That is testament not only to the production but also the safe space environment of this welcoming theatre which made the visit such an adventure for so many excited youngsters.
It is not just a Christmas treat but also the perfect way to bring the joy of live theatre to children at an early age.
The Three Little Pigs will have you blown away!
The Three Little Pigs runs at the Minerva Theatre until Sunday December 28. www.cft.org.uk.
- In Common is not for profit. We rely on donations from readers to keep the site running. Could you help to support us for as little as 25p a week? Please help us to carry on offering independent grass roots media. Visit: https://www.patreon.com/incommonsoton