Pirated! is a fun-filled, circus-based adventure story about three goofy pirates who get marooned on a desert island. The talented team are Ailsa Wild (the bossy captain), Clio Cutcher (captain’s pet Gracie) and the especially charismatic Christy Flaws (Pippy).
The show opens with a very funny piracy warning and then moves into some stunning shadow puppetry. We meet our trio of pirates as they emerge from their treasure chest, cramped and uncomfortable from their journey. But the three performers are all experienced circus artists and teachers so when they need to stretch out their bodies they do it by flipping about all over the stage.
Sweet ‘n’ Sour pack a lot into this show: coconut juggling, digs at the New Zealand accent, awesome acrobatics and the best slow-motion sword fight since Charlie’s Angels. The characters are well drawn and there are nice onstage dynamics between the performers. There are opportunities for the audience to interact and I am sure these will be further explored as the show continues its run. This is excellent family entertainment that successfully amuses all ages. A lot of thought has gone into the pacing of the show and the beautiful music really underscores the action.
At $5 for children and $10 for adults this is easily the best value show around. If you need more convincing then here’s the word from the juniors:
Indigo (10): They were very flexible and I thought they were good actors.
Violet (7): I liked how they told a story about themselves with shadow puppets.
Iris (4): I would like to be Clio when I grow up.
Jasper (4): I like it how they could all fit into the box and then they had a big red X where the treasure was.
Visit the comedy festival website for bookings and further details