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On Wednesday afternoon Caspian and I made our way to The Rose Theatre in Kingston for the opening night of The Cat in The Hat. We recently visited the theatre for a production of Zog and were looking forward to returning. The Cat in the Hat is one of Caspian’s favourites and to say he was excited would be an understatement. The Cat in the Hat plays at The Rose Theatre in Kingston from the 10th of April until the 21st of April.
The Rose Theatre is firstly a brilliant space that allows for many different shows and therefore caters to children as well as adults with a range of productions throughout the year. It’s situated a brief 10-minute walk from Kingston Station with great links in and out of central London so it’s easy to reach even if you are not local. Surrounded by a number of family-friendly restaurants the location offers a great day out for all.
PUTTING ON A GREAT CHILDREN’S SHOW
As an actor myself, I not only find it hugely important to introduce my children to this magical world, I also know first hand how difficult it is to hold their attention and transport them to a different place. They are so used to tapping a screen to change the entertainment that sitting still and being engaged for 90 mins can be difficult. Unless what’s taking place on stage truly captures them.
This fast-paced version of the Dr. Seuss story with original music from Tasha Taylor Johnson and the inclusion of acrobatics from circus choreographer Jack Horner ensures that the audience is never bored. Occasionally the music slightly drowns out the actors’ voices but with a room full of excited children it matters less.
THE CAT IN THE HAT AT THE ROSE THEATRE IN KINGSTON
The energetic cast led by brother and sister duo Sally and ‘The Boy’ played by Melissa Lowe and Sam Angell leads the audience on a whirlwind journey supported by the imaginative set design by Isla Shaw. The production is directed by Suba Das and allows for proper audience participation which the children loved.
Fish, living her best life in her bowl, sipping on cocktails and desperately trying to direct the mayhem on stage, was Caspian’s favourite. The baby boy in my belly kicked along happily to the music and everyone had a wonderful time.
CLOWNING THEIR WAY INTO THE CHILDREN’S HEARTS
All the actors and acrobats are nailing the clowning in the show and they surprise the younger audience with their fantastic skills. The time flies and the 4- and 3-year-old we had with us happily sat through both acts following every step, jump and flip on stage. They loved the audience participation in the first act and the interval 40 minutes in allows for refuelling so they are ready for another 30 minutes to round up the craziness the cat in the giant hat creates.
HOW TO BOOK FOR CAT IN THE HAT AT THE ROSE THEATRE
As mentioned at the beginning the show runs until the 21st of April 2019. You can book tickets online. Such a great day out this half-term with plenty to talk about after the show. You can combine it with a stroll along the river Thames, a gorgeous family meal or take advantage of some of the other many Easter activities Kingston has to offer this month.
