Anna Hibiscus’ Song At Bristol Old Vic Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Lisa Warren
“Happiness is contagious”, a line from the wonderful family show Anna Hibiscus’ Song, will remain with me for as long as I breathe.
The hour long interpretation of a child’s book, centres around a young black African girl, Anna and her journey with happiness. Set in Nigeria, the scenery was colourful and skilfully used in a simple way to bring the village setting to life. I particularly enjoyed the bird flights, pounding of yams and traditional clothing used to depict different family characters.
As we were taking our seats the first actor came on the stage, singing and beating his drum. There was no hushing or silence needed, within seconds we were all swaying and singing with him, warming up both our voices and hearts. The cast joined in via the sides of the auditorium, singing and engaging with the audience from the very second they were in view.
They then go on to introduce us to the story and then to Anna, a wonderful carved wooden puppet, skilfully maneuvered by one and all of the cast who absolutely brought her to life. We follow her visiting different family members who share how they show their happiness and eventually leads to Anna finding her way of showing her happiness before she explodes with such joy into stardust!
A fantastic, vibrant and engaging performance of positivity, love and where to find and show happiness. Introducing young (and old) minds to African storytelling, songs and dance. It was truly magical to see all the children’s faces lighting up and so enthralled with the show, you couldn’t help but feel their glee and a communal celebration of joy.
It’s been one of the best hours of my year so far and I would thoroughly recommend taking your younger kidlets to this interactive joyous explosion of song and dance. I did however go solo, with no children and no date, friend or beau, and thoroughly enjoyed the hour long show.
It was filled with song, dance and a beautiful message of happiness and love. There were times I wished I had someone with me to feel the joy it gave me, to share the giggles, the singing and the consensual squeezing of your neighbour’s hands! However there was never a moment where mine or those all around me smile was not beaming from ear to ear.
Bristol Old Vic is a fabulous venue, with a gorgeous atrium of natural lighting, brick and metal work, the auditorium is cosy, intimate and has quirky side seating alongside the stalls and “pit”. Comfortable traditional seating, a fab bar with snacks selections and a super welcoming team.
Lots of parking available locally within a short walk, central Bristol so close to the train and bus stations. Situated in a socialising area by the river, where there are lots of choices for pre or after show eating or drinking. Plus its walking distance from a green space ideal for picnics and for little legs to run around joyfully singing and dancing after their journey with happiness at the show!
All Photos by Philip Gascoyne via Bristol Old Vic.
Rating: 5/5
Anna Hibiscus’ Song https://bristololdvic.org.uk/whats-on/anna-hibiscus-song?
Aug 29th to 31st 2024 , 10.30 am and 1.30pm
Bristol Old Vic, King Street, Bristol, BS1 4ED
tickets@bristololdvic.org.uk 0117 987 7877
Tickets from £16 | GROUPS Bring a party of 8+ to selected performances and save 15%*1 hour. Ages 3+