If you're looking for a magical experience for your little ones, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at The Lowry in Salford is an absolute must-see! Running until June 1st, this critically acclaimed production by Jonathan Rockefeller brings to life four of Eric Carle's beloved stories with stunning puppetry and captivating storytelling.
The show features a delightful menagerie of 75 puppets, each one more enchanting than the last. The production faithfully adapts four of Carle's classic tales: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Busy Spider, and of course, the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
From the moment the show begins, you are transported into the whimsical world of Eric Carle. The first story, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, introduces us to a series of colourful animals, each asking the next, "What do you see?" The puppets are beautifully crafted and capture the essence of Carle's illustrations perfectly.
Next, 10 Little Rubber Ducks takes the audience on a maritime adventure as the ducks get separated in the sea and meet various charming creatures. The puppetry in this segment is particularly delightful, with the flamingo and pelican being my children's favourites.
The Very Busy Spider follows, depicting a determined spider who builds her web despite numerous distractions from farm animals. The spider's perseverance is wonderfully portrayed, and the animal puppets are both endearing and fun.
The grand finale is the story everyone has been waiting for: The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This segment is a visual feast, showcasing the caterpillar's journey from a tiny egg to a beautiful butterfly. The use of different-sized puppets to show the caterpillar's growth is ingenious, and the transformation into a butterfly is nothing short of magical.
The set design is simple yet effective, with a white backdrop that allows the vibrant puppets to stand out. The puppeteers, dressed in white, blend into the background, making the puppets the true stars of the show. The colourful spots projected onto the stage evoke the playful spirit of Carle's books and instantly draw you into the story.
The cast of puppeteers and storytellers are exceptional, skilfully bringing each character to life with energy and enthusiasm. Although there were no programs to identify them by name, their talent and dedication were evident throughout the performance.
At 50 minutes, the show is perfectly timed for young audiences, keeping them engaged without overstaying its welcome. It's a wonderful introduction to theatre for children, blending beloved stories with the magic of live performance.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show has been delighting audiences worldwide for over seven years, and it's easy to see why. This production is a heartwarming tribute to Eric Carle's timeless stories and a joy for both children and adults alike.
Don't miss your chance to see this enchanting show at The Lowry before it continues its UK tour. It's an unforgettable experience that will leave you and your little ones with smiles and cherished memories. I highly recommend it – four smiles from me!
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show is on at The Lowry until Saturday 1st June 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 - Elise Bakketun
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review
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