We were really excited to hear that Curve was offering a number of relaxed performance dates for The Owl Who Came for Christmas, running right up until 6 January, so potential audiences had several opportunities to attend.
We went along on Saturday 9 December.
We received a link to the relaxed performance information pack a few days before the show, this was a great resource. It had all the information we needed prior to attending on the day to prepare for what to expect.
Alongside a visual story about Curve, how to get there and an explanation of what a relaxed performance was, the pack also included information regarding the performance, highlighting the sensory moments which we found really useful.
In addition, the pack had meet the cast information and a useful sheet with communication aids (sometimes called pecs – picture exchange card system) which Poppy really engaged with.
The pack also informed the audience they had ear defenders available from reception if required.
We were pleased to see there were also sensory adapted toilets, with hand dryers switched off and hand towels provided. This is really important for those who struggle with the noise from hand dryers.
We also took the opportunity of picking up a hard copy of the relaxed performance pack on arrival.
We noticed some craft stalls on the way to the theatre where you could make owl tree decorations, these were still available to visit after the performance.
We also noted there was a chill space you could go to should everything get too overwhelming. The area included sensory toys and activities.
We got to our seats about 15 minutes before the show was due to start and the set looked wonderful with a huge pink moon in the sky overlooking the forest.
The lights were dimmed in the theatre, so it wasn’t too dark and the doors remained open.
Written by John Hay and illustrated by Gary Parsons, the book was inspired by a true story of Rosie the Owl who lost her way, and that inspiration has been carried through into this onstage retelling of the story.
There are four actors in the production, with each actor playing two or three characters each. The acting and the music was thoroughly engaging, and kept the whole audience, no matter their age, involved.
The actors – Mary Bonham, Camille Burnett, Oliver Stanley and Annabelle Terry – looked like they were enjoying every minute of this production as they involved the audience at every stage of Rosie’s journey. The puppetry is incredible throughout and very lifelike.
The excitement of having Rosie the Owl home for Christmas was felt by every audience member I’m sure.
Poppy loved getting involved in the story, she particularly liked doing the wriggly worm with her finger, and the sensory elements, including the sparkly jackets, the car with its bright headlights at night and watching Rosie fly from the back of the auditorium. Her favourite part was when it snowed, which was like watching a magical three-dimensional picture book come alive.
She also loved all the songs – her favourite was ‘If I Had Wings’, and when the audience were invited to get up on their feet to dance at the end, she didn’t need to be asked twice!
After the show, Poppy got to meet Rosie and have her picture taken with her. She also got a colouring book which she proudly showed everyone when she got home.
The Owl Who Came for Christmas really is picture book perfect.
Poppy’s verdict
The Owl Who Came for Christmas is at Curve until 6 January 2024. Every show is a relaxed performance, with captioned performances on Saturday 16 December, BSL interpreted on Friday 22 December and audio described Saturday 23 December.
Tickets £10 – £16
