What do you want from a show for children? Well, maybe good stories with catchy songs, told by witty and memorable characters. How about lots of energy to keep children glued to their seats? And let’s throw in a few morals for good measure. This piece has cowboys, cowgirls, an evil genius, and a rather amusing cactus with wonderful comic timing.
This show will keep any energetic four to eight year old engaged throughout. The cast are clearly having a lot of fun which becomes infectious. It is the simple story of a quest to find the Sun Dance Cave. Sheriff Wayne (Martyn Bignell) and Cowgirl Jane (Jozey Wade) take us on a journey through history, principles and reconciliation. Both have a strong ability to guide us clearly through the story by song. An evil genius Dr Nisi (Tom Briggs) and an accomplice named Sidekick (Natasha Nicholls) have great chemistry and delivery as a classic ‘brains and dim-witted comrade’ double act.
This is a simple yet well performed and written children’s show that has something for both boys and girls; my only criticism of it is that at times it could have been in danger of running away with itself. The aim is to keep an audience of children engaged, not for it to move so fast that you’ve blinked and missed the excitement.
However, this production is an utter delight and I have no doubt that we will be seeing this company again. So, adults of the fringe, if you have any young cowboys or cowgirls in need of some high quality entertainment, don’t hesitate to join Sheriff Wayne and the gang for an exciting hour long adventure. It’s sure to get you singing all the way home.
