KidsFest! 2013 - Mr Benn

Our first show of the year, Mr Benn. It's one of the 4 shows brought in by KidsFest! 2013. In the past, it's a 'wow' or somewhat a luxury for kids to watch such theatrical productions. In fact, I was once struggling to make others understand the importance of such performances just barely 6-7 years ago. Then it was a school setting so we thought of bringing them to the school and the kids rather than convincing parents to take the kids to watch them in the theatres. It was also far too costly for the average family. Now, it's a norm to bring kids to such performances. In fact, you wouldn't be seen too favourably if you don't. 

Unfortunately, some parents don't really know much about what they are letting their kids watch. They assume that if it's a production by so and so, it must be worth watching. I suppose these performances beat those free product endorsement sort of stage show in the malls any time, but parents should do some research nevertheless. I saw a mum outside the theatre once, with her two preteen girls, waiting for a show we were watching. The show was meant for very young audience but somehow, she felt her girls should watch it. She picked up a brochure and started explaining to the girls what the show was all about... She clearly had never heard or read or seen the story or the picture book before. So how then did she decide her girls would benefit or enjoy it?

When I first read about this show, I was curious because I had never heard of it before. I was never an avid reader as a child and I wasn't too keen about children's books or shows until I have the kids. So it wasn't much of a surprise if I have missed out on Mr Benn. So, I went to look for the book online. Sadly, they were unavailable. In fact, the story was dated and very simple. Usually, if the story is simple and managed to survive for generations... it must be worth watching (my personal stand). So, I searched for any related products and found a DVD - Mr Benn - The Complete Series. I bought it immediately and hope it would come in time. 

When it did arrived, Sophie watched it and loved it instantly. For weeks, she was talking about Mr Benn and she couldn't wait to watch the performance. That was kind of the enthusiasm I want from her as an audience. She knows exactly what she would be watching and she understands how the story is translated into a musical or play. There will be differences and adaptations so she can appreciate how  and why such things are done. 

Outside the theatre, Bookaburra set up a booth selling books related to the shows, among others. And I found The Extraordinary Adventures of Mr Benn which wasn't available online. I grabbed it. Sophie was naturally happy although she wished I would buy everything for her. She loves books and she enjoys acquiring new knowledge by reading. I suppose it is the least threatening form of learning. 

We saw brochures on other shows but I am not taking her to see The Gruffalo or the Horrible Histories. I think she's too familiar with The Gruffalo and the story is quite straight forward. I can't really tell since I haven't watched it, but I would rather she watched something she doesn't previously know about. As for the Horrible Histories, I think she's a little too young to appreciate the content. In any case, we can only afford one show per month.

I would say Mr Benn was not too fantastic as a stage performance. We were tickled by some parts but it was quite nicely put together. The kids were not bored even though there is little interaction between the performers and audience. There was nothing spectacular but the kids were able to  engaged in the story. It was subtle yet it opened up the possibility of a vast imaginary world that kids can identify with. Imagine that you could become a knight or a diver and enter another world or time by simply putting on a magic costume from a fancy dress shop. 

While we were watching the show, Papa was busy bonding with Alfee at home. Our helper was out so he had to take care of the little man all by himself. From what I had heard, he was quite a gem to spend time with. He gave Papa little problem and he enjoyed playing with Papa.