With such an unusual name it may be hard for a show such as 'Bubblewrap and Boxes' to stand out. Comprising a mere two performers, a simple yet effective set made from cardboard boxes and few special effects, there was a possibility this show could fall flat with some of its youngest (and harshest) critics. However in the case of 'Asking for Trouble's' production, the simplicity and scaled-back approach was at the heart of its brilliance. The mailroom attendants’ ordered paradise of boxes, was effectively communicated through repetitive and percussive cleaning movements. The world is then thrown into chaos by the arrival of an excitable new playmate. This new dynamic produced laughs from both adults and children, with particular favourites being a cheeky walking box and the disgust expressed after licking a stamp.
Staying true to the show's description clowning and acrobatics play a significant role in the communication of jokes, squabbles and the adventures of the two mailroom attendants. There was a high level of skill displayed by both performers who pulled off gasp-inducing and expertly executed stunts whilst retaining their quirky characters and endearing relationship. Such daring feats were particularly appreciated by the younger members of the audience seated around me with one particularly exciting 'underwater' flip prompting a 'WOW!' from the little girl sitting next to me.
Indeed it is certain that this show is a hit with its audience. Engaging characters and the opportunity to become involved with panto style shouting out instantly delighted those around me. However 'Bubblewrap and Boxes' proves a real triumph when it comes to entertaining the adults and older children in the audience. Devoid of spoken words other than those expressed through the lost letters of the mail room, these sections provide the poignancy and humour an adult audience may desire to obtain from a piece without detracting from the energy and excitement which was so enthralled the children.
To say much more about this piece would be to diminish the experience for future audience members as the spontaneity, breathtaking acrobatics and humour must all be witnessed first hand. Hopefully in the coming days and weeks it will attract the large audiences it so rightly deserves. A triumph of cheeky and heartwarming family entertainment, 'Bubblewrap and Boxes' is a must-see for anyone seeking a little more adventure in their lives, whatever their age.
