Yesterday evening was one out of three productions of the Wyvern Theatre’s latest family show, Penguins - it is sweet, and quite enchanting. Based on a true story about penguins in a zoo enclosure, their story depicts a light-hearted and sophisticated take on family and friendship, told by children for children - and yet, there are a few things that adults like myself can take from it. In today’s current climate Penguins creatively addresses the understanding of family dynamics as well as gender roles and identity in a very slap-stick and endearing way. [caption id=“attachment_37642” align=“aligncenter” width=“679”]
Photo by Robert Day[/caption] Penguins is a really impressive collaboration between Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Prime Theatre, and Cahoots NI which is perfect for a family outing. What was most striking was the skill of the three-piece cast as they implemented a number of impressive dance and acrobatic routines around their enclosure - so well imagined, and so well executed by the young performers. [caption id=“attachment_37641” align=“aligncenter” width=“742”]
Photo by Robert Day[/caption] Although a dance performance Penguins is incredibly engaging and not just because of the cast, but also the clear attention to detail towards the set - when lit up looked like an art installation. There was also a well used depth of the stage by creating layers through stacked blocks which made way for some brilliant under water antics. Accompanied by a mesmerising soundtrack, the audience are taken on a family-fun adventure which will resonate with many theatre-goers - a refreshing take on the theme of family. [caption id=“attachment_37644” align=“aligncenter” width=“742”]
Photo by Robert Day[/caption] I would like to say the sound of giggles amongst the audience were just the more adolescent members on the crowd but, myself included, Penguins brought out a sweet spot for all the ages - particularly by the way in which the trio embodied the comical mannerisms of these birds, as well as their grace. This is a really creative and relevant production for children to go and see - simply delightful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1_OK2qnNDM For further information visit www.cahootsni.com
