A Magical, Musical, Moon Dragon Treat [star rating = 5/5]
How young is too young to start coming to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival? With a show like Moon Dragon catering to even tiny children, there is no lower limit.
From the moment you enter the tent, to when you are waved goodbye as you leave, the three singers and puppeteers bring Bertie the sparkling Moon Dragon to life and guide the audience of Under Fives on an interactive journey to ensure the moon rises tonight.
A simple story is woven with original songs and sprinkled with activities and games of just the right level for everyone to enjoy. There is an underlying genuine musicality to Moon Dragon that sees beautiful harp music supporting soaring sung harmonies. Even the intentionally bad singing is good.
Each child is provided with a shiny bag of props and instruments, guaranteeing their continued attention as each new item is revealed through the developing story. The props are tactile and exciting, facilitating the use of light, dark and sparkle that brings magic to the tale and engages the young audience.
Care has been taken to create a space where children can engage with the production, and with Bertie the Moon Dragon himself. The little ones are able to join in with the fun, rather than it being performed “at” them.
The staging is simple but effective, and the beautiful puppets that are Bertie and his friends, make the space feel homely.
The venue is both child and parent-friendly, but a relaxed atmosphere is created by the performers and the children’s needs come first.
Moon Dragon is a magical, captivating introduction to theatre and performance for the Fringe’s youngest participants.
