It is never easy to take animation onto the stage, but the cast of singing and dancing pigs, ably assisted by Anna, the only ‘human’ in the show do a wonderful job. By utilising the same theme music, voices, and activities of the TV show piggies, it is easy for the target audience of toddlers to make the association between the cartoon and the large, life-sized costumed actors. Whilst not the most riveting plot line for adults (Polly the parrot goes missing!), the show, with its audience interaction and sing-a-longs, is absolutely accessible to tiny Peppa Pig fans.
At 80 minutes long, we were concerned that our terrible two might not go the distance, but she was riveted throughout. The characters urged the audience to participate and all the singing, dancing, oinking, and jumping in muddy puddles kept the children well entertained. The magic torch also enables the engagement of the children. The kiddies are encouraged to assist Peppa and her family throughout the show – this does, however, necessitate the purchase of one ticket (R100).
For those who purchase the VIP tickets, there is a meet and greet with Peppa afterwards and a photo op. Whilst the event organisers have done as much as is humanly possible to keep the children entertained (crayons, juice, colouring-in) while waiting for their picture with their porcine bestie, by this stage our toddler was fractious and sadly we left without the coveted prize of a photo with Peppa.
Marking the first-ever nationwide stage stour for Peppa and friends, the show was on in Johannesburg at Emperor’s Palace from 29 March-2 April 2018 and the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 6-8 April 2018 and will be heading to The Playhouse Company in Durban from 20-22 April 2018. A second leg of the tour takes place in June/July 2018 with stopovers at the SA State Theatre in Pretoria from 16-17 June 2018, then Port Elizabeth Opera House from 23-24 June 2018.
General public ticket sales, as well as exclusive VIP packages that include a meet and greet, are on sale at Computicket.
