The Moon’s a Balloon

Patch Theatre Company have done it again; visually breathtaking and imaginative, in its production of The Moon’s a Balloon, the company has made balloons the catalyst for an extraordinary tale of playful adventures that lead to friendship and connection.

The Moon’s a Balloon is the first production for The Adelaide Festival Centre’s 'Something on Saturday 2016' program for children.

Stark white balloons stand out against a dark backdrop. Cylindrical openings either side of the performing space light up when balloons are dropped into them, while, taking centre stage and looking not unlike the moon is a giant white balloon that is manoeuvred with a sense of awe.

Katrina Lazaroff and Robert Griffin display their playfulness and agility as they carefully weave in and out of a maze of balloon creations. Their own private world is full of surprise and enlightenment. Lazaroff and Griffin frolic amongst the ever-growing number of balloons, treading carefully as they display innovative choreography. The precision with which the players perform is incredible and a delight to young minds.

Adding to the visual spectacle is the soundtrack composed by Josh Bennett, a thumping beat full of guitar and percussion that complements the physicality of the show. Lighting design by David Gadsden is ingenious and plays a large role in the momentum of the story, however what takes this piece to another realm is the digital imagery projected across the sea of white balloons. It is truly an astonishing sight.

There is something magical about sitting in the audience of a children’s theatre piece; the giggles of delight add to the whimsy being witnessed on stage. The honesty and sincerity of the children’s reactions were true indicators that in this production, Patch has a winner.

Kerry Cooper