The Big Bad Wolf at theSpace on the Mile Review
Children’s theatre can be a difficult balancing act. Keep things moving enough to hold the attention of the younger audience members, while slipping in just enough for the adults who have brought them along. The Big Bad Wolf manages that balance brilliantly.
The Plandits take the familiar character of the Big Bad Wolf and throw him into a rock ‘n’ roll musical filled with familiar fairy-tale faces, live music and plenty of silliness along the way.
From the moment they arrive on stage, the energy from the performers is fantastic. They completely commit to the madness of it all, and that enthusiasm quickly spreads around the room. This is very much a children’s show but scattered throughout are wee nuggets of gold clearly aimed at keeping the adults entertained too.
The music is a huge part of what makes the show work. The cast aren’t just energetic performers, but talented musicians too, playing instruments live while also singing, acting and keeping the story moving. It’s an impressive amount to juggle, and they make it look remarkably easy.
A particular highlight comes courtesy of the Three Little Pigs and their venture into techno music. It’s wonderfully ridiculous, completely unexpected and easily one of the funniest moments of the show. It’s exactly the kind of joke that works for the children while giving the adults something extra to enjoy.
There is a lovely sense throughout that the company know exactly what sort of show they are making. Nothing is taken too seriously, the pace rarely drops and the cast throw themselves into every song and character.
My only slight criticism would be the balance of the sound in some of the musical numbers. At points the music is a little too loud, meaning some of the vocals struggle to cut through and lyrics become difficult to make out. It’s a shame, particularly when the singing itself is strong, and a small adjustment to the levels would make those numbers land even better.
That is, however, a very minor criticism of what is otherwise a very enjoyable show.
The 50 minutes absolutely fly by, which is probably one of the biggest compliments you can give a family production. There is always something happening, the performers maintain their energy throughout and the live music gives the whole thing a personality of its own.
The Big Bad Wolf knows its audience and gives them exactly what they’ve come for: big characters, catchy music, plenty of laughs and a healthy dose of chaos.
A fun, energetic and silly 50 minutes of family theatre, led by a talented cast who look like they’re having just as much fun as everyone watching them.
The Big Bad Wolf plays at theSpace on the Mile from 7 - 22 August.
★★★★
Written by Liam Lambie for Theatre and Tonic, August 2026.
