Don’t Dribble on the Dragon at the Assembly Hall Theatre Review
Don’t Dribble on the Dragon
Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells
26 October 2016
Reviewed by Louise Watts
Yesterday afternoon I took my 8-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son to the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells to watch Don’t Dribble on the Dragon by The People’s Theatre Company. This performance was based on the book written by Steven Lee and includes magic designed by the late TV magician Paul Daniels.
The story is a warm tale of the importance of having a family when growing up and revolves around 2 brothers – Tom and Jack, Jack’s pretend dragon and Tom’s unfortunate dribbling problem. This problem is so big it is getting in the way of the brothers’ friendship and is threatening to tear it apart. The question is – can the imaginary Dragon use his magic to keep the brothers’ relationship on course?
This was incredible! It had all the elements needed to keep children entertained – singing, dancing, magic and audience participation. An absolutely delightful children’s show. I have 4 children and have seen many a show aimed at kids over the years and this was spot on. This was by far the best children’s show I think I have ever seen! My son sat on my lap the whole way through and never tried to get off or run away, which means he was enjoying it. My daughter enjoyed it too but I think she was almost on the verge of being too old. She could however relate to the moral of the story and Jacks’ irritations with Tom, particularly as she has a younger brother herself! I would suggest that the target audience for this show should be aged 2-7 years. The songs were simple but catchy and the words were absolutely perfect! I have to admit it had be singing along, laughing and relating completely to what was happening, both in relation to my own children but also when I was younger with my siblings. The set was simple but effective, the costumes were perfect and the cast were enthusiastic, realistic and completely believable in character. The author, Steven Lee played Jack and really brought his book to life!
The Assembly Hall Theatre was as always a lovely venue to attend with friendly, accommodating staff who are always willing to help and a lovely café serving hot drinks and snacks, as well as ice creams for the children.
Parking is easy in the adjacent multi storey and although more expensive to park during the day than it is when visiting in the evening, still a very respectable town centre charge – £2.40 for 2 hours.
This was a warm, funny endearing tale of brotherly love combined with toddler troubles. A truly magical 60 minutes illustrating the importance of strong emotional ties in childhood and the significance of siblings even when they irritate the life out of us! Quite simply a good, fun packed family hour. The best bits for me were the way Tom used a water pistol on the audience every time he was dribbling and the amazing Scottish, singing dragon. Can I think of anything I didn’t like or would want to change? Absolutely not, it was perfect exactly as it was!
It was made more special too as the author himself who played Jack was there after the show to sign copies of his book. We also had the opportunity to have photos with Tom and the Dragon. I truly hope this show goes on tour and gains the credit it deserves and I wish them all the luck with that.
Rating: 5/5 
For more information and tour dates visit ptc.org.uk.
For other shows at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk.
Assembly Hall Theatre, Crescent Rd, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2LU | 01892 530613
