Milly’s Musical Adventure at The Other Palace Studio Review
Written by Cathie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Theatre is a wonderland of experiences, and there is always an abundance of themes, styles and ideas to choose from. However, it can be much more difficult to find family-friendly shows that can suitably thrill your children without turning them into hyperactive T Rexes. Milly's Musical Adventure is a brand new show premiering at The Other Palace in Victoria ahead of its Edinburgh Fringe debut.
Bookended by some very sweet watercolour book photos to explain the storyline, we meet Milly (Lizzy Monds), whose world has lost all music, and she must find 4 songs to make her way home again. She is a refreshingly positive character who is kind, caring and polite to all she meets but is not afraid to stand up for her boundaries or ask for help. The assorted medley of birds, hedgehogs and beavers is played well by the cast (Alicia Holland-Pillado, Issie Roll, Dennis Hughes and Tom O'Brien). Their commendable efforts worked well to make the audience laugh and cheer throughout. The hungry snake antagonist (Michael Rincon) was a huge hit among the audience and children would love to boo and hiss his arrival.
Writer, Composer, Director, Musical Directors Tom Rolph, Michael Rincon and Joe Sartin have worked hard to create an imaginative and creative story for young children. It’s clear themes of kindness, supporting others and avoiding stranger danger are excellent for young children to understand. There is light use of audience interaction, which is vaguely pantomime in style, that children would love to shout to as well.
The set is creative for its budget, and its simplicity and sparse use of props means that it will delight instead of overwhelming children. The use of puppetry is fantastic and filled with nostalgic vibes that parents will enjoy as much as their children will find the mild threat thrilling. The short running time of 40 minutes and quick propelling of the plot means that this show is especially suitable for children under 7 (EYFS and KS1).
If you enjoy wholesome, creative shows with a positive message, plenty of jokes for adults and children to enjoy, singing animals and a short but sweet experience, then this is the show for you.
Milly’s Musical Adventure will play from 1-16 August at the Thistle Theatre at Greenside @ Riddles Court as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
★★★★
