As always the Fringe provides a vast range of entertainment for the younger crowd and some of the most innovative and entertaining shows can be found aimed at the family market. Last year the must see family show was The Bookbinder, from Trick of the Light Theatre. An engrossing, one man show that delivered an unforgettable mix of shadow play, puppetry and music. If you missed it last year, you are in luck, as it is playing once again at the Pleasance Courtyard. It will likely be a sell-out so do book your tickets! Trick of the Light are also bringing a family musical about a little girl who wants to grow a beard with the suitably titled Beards! Beards! Beards! to the Assembly Roxy.
Other theatre shows worth checking out in the family market include Newbury Youth Theatre’s Fairies and Dragons of the Desolate Plain – set in the WW1 era it follows the plight of a little girl’s mission to prove fairies are real. Meanwhile everyone’s favourite fairy, Tinkerbell, will be appearing in Flying High Youth Theatre’s production of Peter Pan, playing at theSpace on Niddry St, a popular story that always goes down well with the kids. Look out also for The Many Doors of Frank Feel Bad, a moving, graceful production that is not afraid to delve into sensitive issues.
If the kids are up for musical comedy you can always bet TaleGate Theatre will deliver. They have been appearing at the festival for a number of years and this year they bring The Giant’s Loo Roll which will guarantee to please, as will old favourite Father Christmas Needs a Wee!
Comedy highlights for the kids come from Australia with The Listies 6D (Twice as Good as 3D) who have crafted a hilarious movie based piece that includes ninja grannies! Whilst Gaulier clowning comes from A Plague of Idiots with their impeccably silly show, PFfaf.
Magic and music shows can also be found for the youngsters with highlights including Morgan & West’s Utterly Spiffing Magic Show for Kids (and Childish Grown-Ups!) and Nick Cope’s Family Songbook.
Plenty to choose from and if the youngsters want a bit of everything, Mix ‘N’ Pick Theatre is this year holding a Fringe Summer Camp for ages 5-12. Based at the Salvation Army Community Centre on the Pleasance, the camp runs from Monday 8th – Friday 12th, 10am-1pm and has a number of workshops and mini performances from children’s theatre companies from the festival.