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Party begins with a beautiful classical guitar, eclectic set and distinctly Circus atmosphere; all of which are designed to grab and keep the attention of the two-to-four year-olds in the audience. It works on me too.
Half Moon Theatre have a long and rich history of creating innovative work for young audiences and with Party they live up to their well-earned reputation. Director Chris Elwell’s concept is simple and joyous. A child, Afonso, is preparing to attend a birthday party. The scenario is as familiar to toddlers as it is to adults.
Simon Victor is delightful as the young protagonist of the piece. His huge facial expressions and oversized gestures draw us into his colourful, excitable world. Afonso’s football shirt lists his number as Seven and if it wasn’t for his healthy beard, Victor could be. Wide-eyed, he explores his surroundings with a youthful exuberance, charmingly complemented by the Fado music which sets the mood. Victor’s performance is believable and truthful and walks a fine line between clowning and realism.
Physicality and movement are key to Party, especially since the use of text is limited. Language is sparse but expertly applied, never more than one or two words used together, repeating and singing phrases which are very familiar to their target audience. Central to the piece, traditional Portuguese music provides the cheerful soundtrack to the fun. It’s catchy too, I’ve been humming the melodies ever since. Excellent work from Singing Cactus Productions.
Peter Morton’s design ensures that the playful props perform a variety of functions. I found the moment with the tied-together football boots particularly entertaining. At times I laughed out loud. Diving into the toybox, Afonso chooses a wonderfully outlandish party outfit consisting of a tuxedo jacket over string vest with a tutu and pink Doc Martens. His freedom and glee are heart-warming.
Not a moment is wasted in this piece. Every second is packed full of silliness and imagination and is pitched just right. Even the slapstick accidents are light-hearted; reassuring the young audience that Afonso is not hurt. There is humour for the grown-ups too. They appreciate the farce in the hero’s sugar high after eating a make-believe slice of cake he cuts. Similarly, they appreciate the moral dilemmas Afonso faces in the plot; should he eat the cake? Open the gift? Pop the balloon?
Party is captivating, lively and wholesome. I can’t fault it. After a year of this “new normality” and daily bad tidings, it’s hard to put a grin on my face for a solid half-hour. Party did, and I’m thirty years old. I can only imagine how happy it will make it’s intended viewers.
Party is playing online until 1 April 2021. For more information and tickets, see Half Moon Theatre online.