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 Childrens |
Rating Guide None = Unmissable 
= UnwatchablePage number refers to the Fringe programme James Campbell's Comedy 4 Kids. (P10) Drams
a soft drink version. Venue Assembly Rooms. (Venue 3) Address 54 George Street. Reviewer Fiona O'Hanlon. James Campbell, or should I say James James Campbell, Just James Campbell or even James David Rebecca Campbell? Within the first five minutes of James Campbell's Comedy 4 Kids the stand-up comic has managed to humorously define himself whilst simultaneously engaging his young audience in a sketch about middle names. And, as he points out, the show hasn't even started yet… In a performance pitched at children aged between five and ten, (parents, guardians and handlers are also admitted), Campbell proves himself to be a skilled children's entertainer. The 'middle names' thread is cleverly interwoven with anecdotes about Christmas, fire drills and animals, whilst audience participation is used as a springboard for improvisation. The potential for such a piece to become an eclectic mix of random topic areas is stemmed by the repetition of certain characters, phrases and mannerisms throughout the performance. Campbell's vocal impersonations, exaggerated facial expressions and elaborate hand actions hold the audience spellbound and enable him to dispense with the colourful costumes and props typically associated with children's productions. An engaging, enjoyable experience for children and adults alike, you won't be doing James' childhood 'time to go home' song and dance as you leave. © Fiona O'Hanlon 6th August 2003 - Published on www.EdinburghGuide.com Runs to 25th August, daily at 13.45. Company – EVA Management.
Mum and the Monster (P11) Drams Venue C too (Venue 4) Address St Columba's by the Castle, Johnston Terrace Reviewer Fiona O'Hanlon What would you do if your dad claimed your mum had been kidnapped by a monster? Why, go and save her of course! In Mum and the Monster we follow Tom's attempt to rescue his mum from the hairy monster whose lair lies at the top of the mountain. Like a knight searching for a damsel in distress, Tom embarks upon his quest, bravely crossing the 'bridge of no return' and confronting an evil witch and a giant on his way! The tale is performed by a talented cast of three who use a combination of singing, dancing and physical theatre to imaginatively bring the basic set to life. Atmosphere is created by the music played on the violin, clarinet and accordion, instruments which double as props in the performance. However, the restricted number of actors hinders the clear communication of the intricate storyline. As each actor plays several parts, the story hinges upon the children's ability to appreciate the subtly marked character changes. Particularly confusing is the instance in which the mother (who is meant to have been kidnapped) remains on stage as the narrator. Nevertheless, important lessons can be gleaned from Mum and the Monster. Tom's meetings with the witch and the giant remind children not to go with strangers whilst the revelation of the true identity of the monster provides a deeper message for those old enough to grasp it. A strong script which tackles serious issues facing many children in contemporary society. More actors would have made this a joy. © Fiona O'Hanlon, 6th August 2003 - Published on www.EdinburghGuide.com Runs to 24th August, daily at 16.20, not 10th. Company Tall Stories.
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