With the school holidays now in full swing, we’ve taken a look at the best kids and family friendly shows at Gilded Balloon as part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival next month.
The family offerings at the well established Fringe venue at the Teviot include an adaptation of David Walliams' hit kids book The Slightly Annoying Elephant, brought to life through beautiful puppets from the award winning Little Angel Theatre. Or for an educational trip check out Maths at the Museum. And, for a modern twist on classic fairytales there's Lost in the Woods or enjoy a kid-friendly take on the Bard at Smashing Shakespeare.
. Glom Glom and the Musical Monster Millipede
All the way from the jungles of Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, this international kids comedy duo will be oozing enthusiasm all over the Edinburgh Fringe. Glom Glom and the Musical Monster Millipede’s action packed interactive adventure show is smashed full of comedic pieces, singalongs, interactive obstacles and guaranteed giggle fits for cool kids and carers alike. Step, if you dare, through the portal of metamorphosis and experience this beautiful yet unique immersive musical. Suitable for 0+ (2 -12). 11am, August 2-14. Photo: Gilded Balloon
. Strictly Barking
A ballroom phenomenon with fab-u-lous dance routines to suit the whole family, Strictly Barking is a high-energy comedy following a lonely old man and a homeless dog whose friendship leads them to enter a ballroom dancing competition. Each performance combines clowning, non-verbal storytelling, and audience interaction for all. Strictly Come Dancing meets Wallace and Gromit, this is a must-see family show. Suitable for 3+. 1pm, August 2-20. Photo: Gilded Balloon
. The Slightly Annoying Elephant
What’s big, blue, bossy and turns up uninvited? The Slightly Annoying Elephant, of course! Based on David Walliams' hit novel, this funny children’s story is brought to life by London’s award-winning home of puppetry, Little Angel Theatre and sure to enchant kids and adults alike. Laugh along as Sam’s life is turned upside down after adopting an elephant at the zoo as the hungry, antique-loving, cycling enthusiast creature comes to live with him. Suitable for families and children aged 3+, join this heartwarming tale as The Slightly Annoying Elephant stomps their way to the Edinburgh Fringe. Suitable for 3+. 1pm, August 2-28. Photo: Gilded Balloon
9. Artiste
International children’s theatre makers Brymore Productions return to Edinburgh with their joyful ode to creativity, Artiste. With less than 60 minutes on the clock, interactive side-splitting comedy and crafty clowning combine as a bumbling artist attempts to create a brand new masterpiece for youngsters to revel in. Mr Bean meets the Mona Lisa in this high-energy, paint-splattered comedy. Prepare for a colourful whirlwind as things are about to get messy! Suitable for 3+. 11.20am, August 2-20. Photo: Gilded Balloon
10. Lost in the Woods
'Once upon a time, a little girl and a little boy were lost in the woods...' That is usually how these things start. Only this time they are not just Lost In The Woods, but within their own story! This absurd comedy for all ages (5+), brings a new twist to the fairytales you know and love. With buckets-full of imagination, and oodles of laughter, experience a fun-filled theatrical performance you don’t want to miss as Hansel and Gretel dive into stories brought to life with shadow play, physical theatre, voiceovers, props, music and laughter. Will the duo (and the audience) get home, or will they all be stuck in fairytales forever? Suitable for 5+. 11.15am, 2 - 28 August 2-28. Photo: Gilded Balloon