Perform in the Park

Coram’s Fields in Bloomsbury is one of central London’s best kept secrets. A leafy play space where adults are only allowed in if they are accompanied by a child, this summer a huge white theatre tent that seats 500 has arrived to add to the allure. With 5 accessible shows targeted at ages ranging from two to 14 years old, with wood-fired pizza and ice-cream to follow, it’s a treat for all the family.

Inside the tent is incredibly spacious with comfortable seating, good sight lines and inflatable cushions available if your child wants to sit higher. The bright sets, quirky costumes, and gentle effects are exciting without being overwhelming for young children and the quality of performances is high throughout.

Three Billy Goats Gruff which is aimed at the youngest (there were happy babies the morning we went) kept my toddler entertained throughout the 50 minutes with gentle humour, generous spirited performances and even some tap dancing. The three actors are well mic'd up so any noisy little ones needn’t distract and it’s a pleasure to see a traditional tale with a few contemporary twists. There’s no need to worry about nightmares induced by the troll under the bridge who is played by each of the cast in turn. As in the original, he is lurking under the bridge ready to gobble up the trolls but not only do they outsmart him each time, but it turns out he really he just wants a friend to cheer him up.

‘Elephant & Piggie's We are in a Play’ for older toddlers, also captivated our usually very active son. It charts the friendship between Gerald the elephant and Piggie attending her first party, hosted by the Squirrelles through to their first disagreement. Songs of friendship, toys and ice-cream combine in a well worked musical that holds the attention of all the children. Well-acted the six-strong cast strike the right balance of storyline, music, and jokes.

Three cheers for the arrival of Perform in the Park’s Festival of Children's Theatre; definitely a great first, second or third step into the magical world of theatre. With shows running through August, let’s hope it’s the first season of many to come.

Currently showing: Book Tickets
The Three Billy Goats Gruff: Ages: 2-7
Elephants And Piggies: Ages: 3 – 8
Mermaids & Pirates: Ages: 4 – 11
The Dream: Ages: 7 – 14

Photo credit: Mermaids & Pirates by Ellie Kurttz