Cranky Bear

With 42 years’ experience, Patch Theatre Company have perfected the recipe for high quality children’s theatre. The auditorium was abuzz with the chatter, excitement and anticipation of youngsters eagerly awaiting the performance of Cranky Bear. Based on the children’s book The Very Cranky Bear by Nick Bland, director Dave Brown and company have put together a delightful, interactive piece which was entertaining to young and old alike.

The story was brought to life by three cabaretiers, Tim Overton, Jude Henshall and Stephen Sheehan. All were bursting with energy and expression, their animated performances were appreciated by a vocal audience. Each displayed numerous talents and this was never more evident than when they played piano, ukulele and bongos. All gifted vocally, the songs lifted scenes from mediocre to fun. Costumes were well thought through, as was the vibrant set. Colourful lighting and shiny set pieces were visually rewarding.

They say you should never work with animals or children, but what if the children are dressed as animals? The four youngsters plucked from the audience were obviously part of this ensemble, but Jude Henshall still had to steer them in the right direction and did so with ease.

The creative team have done extremely well to produce a show that is fun, but does not patronise; allowing the younger members of the audience to use their imaginations and become involved.

With attention spans waning, Cranky Bear is fast paced and although only 45 minutes duration it is packed full of music, colourful characters and lessons learnt.

Kerry Cooper

Image: Jude Henshall

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