Reviewed by Rosemary Knight
I took my four year old grandson Oliver to The Lowry theatre in Salford Quays, Manchester to watch top children’s’ TV presenter Justin Fletcher’s new show, Justin’s Band. As his alter-ego, Mr Tumble, Justin is one of the best loved children’s entertainers in the land. However, this new show is all about Justin’s musical adventure and starting up a new band.
Both Oliver and myself are huge fans of Justin, as were all the excited children in the packed-out audience, so we were really looking forward to this treat. Justin was joined on stage by four of his friends, who sang and danced along with him, while they were gradually joined by other musicians, a drummer, guitarists, saxophonists and a pianist all making up the band. Throughout the performance, he encouraged the children and grownups in the audience to join in with the music and also to take photos so that we can look back and remember just how much fun we had. This was such a fantastic gesture as many other acts request people to stop taking photos, but Justin and his band took the time to pose for them. One really magical moment was when we all sang along to Twinkle Twinkle Little Star while sparkling fairy lights lit up the ceiling and walls of the theatre.
Another extremely funny moment was when Justin was getting hit in the face repeatedly with custard pies, when we were all laughing our socks off. He is definitely at his best when he is playing the clown, as he is so naturally funny.
Throughout, Justin’s natural warmth shone through. He has an uncanny childlike quality which makes him such a hit with children. The entire audience took part in singing Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes whilst performing the actions and being generally silly. Children were dancing in their seats and in the aisles, singing and clapping along and thoroughly enjoying themselves, all encouraged to do so by Justin. Confetti was showered at the beginning and the end of the show, which really excited the children.
The performance is two hours long, including an interval, which sounds quite long for a children’s show, but Justin’s amazing antics kept the children engrossed throughout. I would highly recommend this brilliant show to all parents wanting to keep their young children entertained. Justin Fletcher is absolutely fantastic, and my grandson had a wonderful time.
Rating: 5/5
Justin’s Band is currently on tour around the UK, for more information and tour dates visit justinsband.com.
For other shows The Lowry in Manchester visit www.thelowry.com or call the box office on 0843 208 6000.
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, Manchester, M50 3AZ | 0843 208 6000
