SpongeBob SquarePants has come a long way since launching on Nickelodeon in July 1999.
Since then, it’s been the top children’s animated series on TV, producing a host of unforgettable characters, catchphrases and memes.
The SpongeBob Musical opened in Broadway in 2017, and now we get to see it on its UK premier tour.
This show has something for all ages, with some great gags and captivating visual effects.
The first thing that will strike anyone coming along to watch Spongebob is the vibrant colours used during the show, in keeping with the bright yellow sponge who lives in a pineapple under the sea in his hometown of Bikini Bottom.
Lewis Cornay is perfectly cast as SpongeBob, who we first see waking up in his huge sponge bed. The whole ensemble is well cast, with my particular favourite Irfan Damani as Patrick Star and his adoring shoal of sardines.
A volcano threatens to destroy Bikini Bottom and it is up to SpongeBob, Patrick and Sandy Cheeks the squirrel, played by Chrissie Bhima to save them. Science-mad Sandy has a plan, but Sheldon J Plankton, played by Divina De Campo of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, threatens to overthrow it.
One memorable part of the show is when Lewis Cornay as SpongeBob sings ‘Just a Simple Sponge’ in an ultra violet light scene with the sponges glowing and dancing around him.
Squidward Q Tentacles, played by Tom Read Wilson is a huge character on stage not just because of his inventive costume. His song ‘I’m not a Loser’ is powerfully delivered and is mesmerising to watch.
Talking of songs in the show, there are some big names involved with original songs from Cyndi Lauper, the Plain White T’s, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith and David Bowie.
You’ll have to watch the show to see if SpongeBob and his pals save the day and stop the volcano, suffice to say there are lots of bubbles involved!
This is such an upbeat musical, Steve Howell’s set design is so bright it won’t fail to keep your attention for the whole show. Sarah Mercade’s costumes are equally as vibrant making the whole show a joy to watch from beginning to end.
SpongeBob the Musical is at Curve until July 15.
Tickets £10-£26
