Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to the madness that is the I Hate Children, Children’s Show. From the moment you enter the theatre, accompanied by cool rock riffs from guitarist John Anaya, it is clear that this is no ordinary kids’ show. The set looks as though a magic shop had exploded, with bits and pieces strewn about in chaotic disarray like a mad-capped circus at a rock concert.
Enter bad boy magician Paul Nathan who welcomes the families, cracks the whip - literally - and lays down the ground rules, and, at this moment, Mr. Nathan’s genius is revealed. This is not simply a big, shiny, spectacular magic show: this is a platform for making children the stars; a well-choreographed yet highly improvisation comedic romp through what kids do best, which is just about anything. Nathan is edgy and rude, hilarious and spontaneous, even controversial. Yet he keeps all the humour family-friendly and never at the expense of the children. He clearly has an unparalleled kid gauge for just where that line rests and the interplay between Nathan and Anaya is a bit of musical mayhem not often seen outside of an improv club.
The show is a non-stop laugh fest, a fantastical celebration of the kingdom of kid. Every child who wants to participate gets the chance, if time allows. The magic is impressive though somewhat predictable, but of course the magic itself is not the innovation of this show. Its innovation is the comedy, improv and thrill for the kids, many of whom join that stage for the first time fearlessly. The true magic is in the delight of these children, rewarded with candy, balloons, fun and memories.
I can’t quite say this show is perfect - they are still working out the kinks, adding jokes, removing jokes, finding their footing as this is an all-new version of the incredibly popular production - but I can say this show is perfect for the whole family. If you have children (even if you don’t) run to the Pleasance Theatre, pay your money, bring a drink and a camera. You won’t regret the investment. Seriously though, bring a camera!
