Little Red Riding Hood @ Birmingham's Rep

An introduction to family theatre at its best!

As we came out my 11 year old declared, "I really, really enjoyed that!" So too had my 4 year old who was full of excitement and talking about her favourite character. Two happy, satisfied children counts as a huge win for me.

I believe the Little Red Riding Hood show was an all round hit because it highly engaging. The actors were out and about before the show, putting the children at ease and helping them to know what to expect. The show was a mix of speaking, singing, music and sign language. The whole audience was encouraged to join in, shout up, sing out and join in the Makaton signing. This was just what an auditorium of excited children need to keep them thoroughly engaged for the whole show which lasted just over 50 minutes.

Makaton signing was integrated within the show. Whilst the whole show wasn't signed lots of it was and we all learned the sign for the big bad wolf. At the school where I am headteacher, we have a young girl who communicates through Makaton and I found myself wishing she was there in the audience feeling part of the show.

The set was cleverly designed and contained over 100 umbrellas sourced second hand. The costumes were also second hand or made from fabric already held in The Rep's store. This is no gimmick though. It's part of The Theatre Green Book initiative working to make the UK theatre industry more sustainable. I was really impressed by this and hope to see more of The Rep's shows becoming part of Green Book as we take care of our world for future generations.

You may have wondered who my 4 year old's favourite character was? It was quite definitely 'Red' who was played by the wonderful Siobhan Cha Cha who spoke to my daughter on the way in and played the adventurous female lead, often bounding across the stage full of expression and excitement.

I should mention that the show was a hit with the adults too and not just because our children were happy. The show was fun, clever and the actors amusingly responsive to the young and old audience members who cried out instructions and warnings. This show really will please the whole family.

Red Riding Hood is on at Birmingham Rep's intimate performance space, The Door, with tickets starting at 10 pounds.

https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on/little-red-riding-hood/

Special thanks to The Rep for inviting us along to review the show.

Photos of the cast by Kris Askey.

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