As a family of devoted Bluey fans, we were over the moon when we discovered that "Bluey’s Big Play" was coming to The Lowry. The Emmy® award-winning children's series has been a staple in our household, providing countless moments of joy, laughter, and heartfelt lessons. So, when we heard about the live stage adaptation featuring an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm and new music by Joff Bush, we knew we had to see it. Produced by Andrew Kay, Cuffe & Taylor, and Windmill Theatre Co for BBC Studios, this show promised to bring our favourite animated characters to life in a way we had never seen before.
When Bandit, the Heeler dad, settles in for a much-needed Sunday afternoon break, Bluey and Bingo concoct a plan to pry him away from his beloved bean bag and phone. What follows is a whirlwind of creativity and fun, as the sisters pull out all the stops to get their dad off the couch and into their games. The story unfolds with Bluey and Bingo’s endless energy and clever tactics, leading to a series of playful and imaginative escapades.
Their first mission involves stealing Bandit’s phone, a move that sets the stage for a cascade of comical scenarios. Bluey, frustrated with Bingo’s habit of copying everything she does, navigates the tricky waters of sibling rivalry, while Bandit, caught between his desire for rest and his daughters’ relentless enthusiasm, finds himself drawn into their world of make-believe.
The narrative cleverly integrates moments from the show, including an amusing game of musical statues that humorously reimagines the series' iconic intro sequence. The story also touches on deeper themes of family bonding and the importance of play, as Bluey learns from her mother, Chilli, what it truly means to be a big sister. Chilli's guidance helps Bluey understand the value of patience and empathy, strengthening the bond between the sisters.
Amidst the antics, there are delightful cameos from fan-favourite characters like Chattermax, the Furby-like toy that causes chaos, Lucky's dad and the cheeky grannies, Janet and Rita. These moments are woven seamlessly into the plot, adding layers of nostalgia and excitement for longtime fans of the series.
One of the highlights of the show is an imaginative car chase involving a toy vehicle, which showcases Bluey and Bingo’s vivid imaginations and their ability to turn the ordinary into extraordinary. The siblings’ adventures are punctuated by bursts of new music composed by Joff Bush, which enhances the emotional depth and whimsical nature of their journey.
Throughout the performance, the story maintains a gentle yet engaging pace, balancing humour with heartfelt moments. The climax arrives with a touching resolution as Bandit fully embraces the spirit of play, leading to a heartwarming finale that sees the Heeler family united in laughter and joy. The experience is capped off with an interactive game of “Keepy Uppy,” where giant inflatable balls and bubbles bring the entire audience into the fun.
Jonathon Oxlade’s set design for "Bluey’s Big Play" is nothing short of spectacular, perfectly capturing the vibrant and whimsical world of the Heeler family. From the moment you walk into the auditorium and see the set, you are transported into a colourful, animated-like environment that mirrors the beloved TV series.
The stage is a dynamic, adaptable space that effortlessly transitions between various familiar locations from the show. One moment, we are in the cosy living room of the Heeler home, complete with a couch and Bandit's favourite bean bag. The next, we find ourselves in the lively backyard, a central hub for Bluey and Bingo's imaginative adventures. These swift and seamless scene changes are made possible by a clever combination of modular set pieces and versatile props that allow the narrative to flow smoothly.
Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the set design. The walls are adorned with playful patterns and colours that evoke the cheerful aesthetic of the animated series. Furniture and props are oversized and cartoonish, adding to the immersive experience and making it feel as though the audience has stepped directly into an episode of Bluey.
The lighting design by Richard Dinnen further enhances the magic of the set. Warm, soft hues create a homely atmosphere in the indoor scenes, while brighter, more vibrant lighting brings the outdoor scenes to life. Special effects, such as twinkling lights and gentle spotlights, add an extra layer of enchantment, especially during the more whimsical and dreamlike sequences.
One particularly impressive aspect of the set is its interactivity. Various elements of the stage are designed to be manipulated by the puppeteers, creating an ever-changing landscape that responds to the characters' actions. For instance, when Bluey and Bingo embark on their imaginative play, furniture and props are cleverly repositioned to transform the space into different fantasy worlds, enhancing the storytelling and keeping young audiences engaged.
The real stars of the show are the human-sized puppets of Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli. Operated by two skilled puppeteers each, these characters are brought to life with a level of detail and expressiveness that is nothing short of mesmerising. The puppeteers’ energy and commitment ensure that the characters’ charm and quirks are beautifully translated from screen to stage, making every movement and expression feel genuine. The cast of puppeteers does a phenomenal job, seamlessly integrating pre-recorded voices from the original cast. Their performance is not just about manipulating the puppets but embodying the spirit of each character. The result is a delightful portrayal that keeps the children wide-eyed with excitement and the adults chuckling along.
"Bluey’s Big Play" at The Lowry is an absolute blast from start to finish! This enchanting theatrical experience captivates audiences of all ages with its perfect blend of humour, heart, and high-energy hijinks. The 50-minute performance is a whirlwind of laughter, love, and life lessons, wrapping up with an exhilarating game of "Keepy Uppy" that gets everyone on their feet, bouncing giant inflatable balls and catching bubbles. It's a truly interactive finale that brings the whole audience together in a joyous celebration.
The show's ability to stay true to the spirit of the beloved TV series while adding its unique theatrical flair makes it a standout experience. The meticulous attention to detail, from the vibrant set to the expertly crafted puppets, ensures that fans feel right at home in the world of Bluey.
Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Heeler family's adventures, "Bluey’s Big Play" promises an unforgettable outing that will leave you humming the show's catchy tunes and recounting its funniest moments long after you've left the theatre. It's impossible to leave without a huge smile on your face and a spring in your step. If you're a Bluey fan, this show is a must-see—pure wackadoo fun for the whole family! Five stars, for real life!
Bluey’s Big Play is on at The Lowry until Sunday 11th August 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Mark Senior
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review
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