By Julia Cudsi
Who hasn’t read Nick Bland’s delightfully simple children’s story ‘The Very Cranky Bear’? Set in the Jingle Jangle Jungle in the middle of a rainstorm, it follows the story of four mismatched friends – Lion, Moose, Zebra and Sheep – who try to shelter in a cave that, unfortunately for the hapless foursome, also houses the titular very cranky bear.
The Patch Theatre version of ‘The Very Cranky Bear’ ably adapts the short, sweet story about thoughtfulness, sharing, altruism and kindness to the stage in a musical setting.
Despite having only three actors to play all five characters (much to the bemusement of Little Miss Five), the vast array of costumes, musical instruments and simple but sparkly set designs meant that this show had everything necessary to amuse and tantalise young children – which is probably why nearly all shows at the Norwood Odeon theatre have sold out.
Possibly a little scary for very young children, this is nonetheless a heartwarming tale which adapts nicely to a 50 minute stage show – just long enough to keep the littlies entertained and sitting still.
Kryztoff Rating 4K
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