I guess everyone is familiar with the classic W C Fields comment
“never work with children and dogs”.
Well, we do all the time, with children anyway. Yes, they may steel the limelight, but the wonderful expressions on their faces when they are absorbed by what they are witnessing more than compensates.
One incident I will never forget was during our performance of “The Gingerbread Man” to a nursery group. Midway into the play the Gingerbread Man says he is hungry and desperate for something to eat. “Why don’t you eat yourself” a bright four-year-old calls out. I defy any actor not to corpse at that one.
Since I have started with Gingerbread Man or “GINGER” as he is affectionately known, I will stick with him.
Of course, to the echo of his famous rhyme, he is forever running away to find a better home. He meets many interesting characters, not all as friendly as he would wish, and eventually outwits the cunning fox who we all know was intent on eating him but, importantly, he makes it back home safe and sound.
So, there you have it, “BE HAPPY WITH YOUR LOT”. As a Theatre in Education Company, we are delivering a strong message, albeit in a light-hearted, fun-filled way with stacks of humour, music, songs and audience participation.
Before you go, take a look at some pictures from the play,
Albert……
