Rude Science At Lighthouse Poole Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Helen O

With a science‑mad 7 year old who adores anything gloriously revolting, we absolutely couldn’t wait to take our seats this morning for Rude Science as it exploded into Lighthouse, Poole as part of its fantastic national tour. It exceeded our expectations and more — in the very best (and grossest) ways!

The show took place in the Concert Hall at Lighthouse, Poole — a brilliant space for such a high‑energy performance. We were seated in the stalls with a fantastic view of the stage, made even better by the use of a close‑up camera that projected detailed shots of the experiments as they unfolded onto the large screen above.

As we waited for the show to begin, it was clear we were in for something jam‑packed and wonderfully chaotic, judging by the sheer amount of equipment crammed onto the stage. Flanked by a giant inflatable bottom on one side and an enormous pair of inflatable lips on the other, we didn’t have to wait long before the scientific antics burst into action.

Brought to life by TV Gastronaut Stefan Gates – Stefan is a multi-award winning STEM author and CBBC writer and presenter who revels in tackling fascinating science themes that are often considered taboo.

Stefan burst onto the stage full of energy, joined by his trusty ‘Health & Safety Trainee’, Gareth — and we knew instantly we were in for a joyous couple of hours. We absolutely loved the dynamic between this delightful duo, whose infectious enthusiasm never dipped from the very first moment right through to the meet and greet after the show. Their passion for all things revolting was truly contagious, in the very best way.

What we really loved was the fact that they actively encouraged the audience to take photos and videos — a refreshing change, as so often this isn’t permitted. Being able to capture the action meant we could relive our favourite experiments afterwards and share the fun with friends and family.

The whole concept of the show is wonderfully put together, designed not only to entertain but to inspire a lifelong love of science in its young audience. It delivers big laughs, brilliant facts, and gloriously messy moments in equal measure. What’s not to love! Although, I think the adults in the audience were equally as inspired as the kids…I know I was!

We also thought it was brilliant that a show like this gives children permission to talk openly about bodily functions — something so often treated as unmentionable. It teaches them that we’re all the same: we all produce snot, we all fart, we all sweat… and that’s perfectly okay.

My son’s favourite part of the show was when Stef and Gareth talked all things snot – culminating in the production of some bogies…which may or may not have been chomped on by a carefully selected adult!

With experiment after experiment, it felt as though there wasn’t a single bodily fluid left unexplored or unexplained. It truly lived up to the phrase “every day’s a school day” — and a testament to how brilliantly everything was presented, my son came home excitedly reeling off facts. Absolutely brilliant.

There were poo costumes, explosions and oversized whoopee cushions galore. Not to mention cameos from Gladys and Babs, the body-fluid-oozing mannequin! Packed full of hilarious content, this show is right up any child’s street.

Bursting with audience participation, there were plenty of opportunities for both kids and adults to get (very actively) involved. The show is recommended for ages 6 and up, which feels absolutely perfect for this subject matter — totally revolting, yet highly educational. Running at almost two hours (including an interval) and with ticket prices from £20.35, it’s fantastic value for money. I cannot recommend this show highly enough — for kids and adults alike. I’d watch it again in a heartbeat.

Rating: 5/5 – I’d give it more, if I could!
RRP: Ticket price from £20.35
Buy Tickets here: https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/event/rude-science-2/

Full Tour Dates can be found here: https://gastronauttv.com/utterly-revolting-dates
Address: Lighthouse, 21 Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG