Sing, Sign and Sensory – On Safari

Gilded Balloon

The set-up for this show is undeniably exciting, with an inflatable dome filled with fluffy cloud pillows and projections that transform the walls into a moving canvas. On paper, it promises a magical, immersive experience, but in practice it didn’t quite reach its full potential.

The dome itself is very loud (think, bouncy castle) which in turn meant the accompanying music that was played in the show was very loud too. I don’t really mind loud things (Boyo, 8 months, doesn’t either) but it was somehow more jarring than joyful in this context. Lighting was also a bit of a challenge; aside from the projections and a disco ball so we couldn’t fully see the performer who was singing and signing, or the animal props they were showing round.

Boyo was due a nap, which probably didn’t help, but after a bit of dazzling at the animal projections on the ceiling he lost focus and got grizzly. Sadly that meant he wasn’t really up for the baby rave at the end either.

That said, the concept has lots of potential, would love to see more done in this brilliant space. 

(Written by Debs Hahn)