|
Written by Chloe Edworthy
|
 Dublin’s Project Arts Centre commissioned David O’Doherty to write something for kids that wasn’t “crappy” and ‘I Can’t Sleep’ was the result. Audiences can look forward to nearly an hour of children’s entertainment that isn’t patronising, preachy or at all nauseating. It must be a godsend to parents. The premise is that the pair (O’Doherty and his equally affable sidekick Maeve Higgins) is struggling to sleep and the audience are encouraged to join in with suggestions and sound effects to help tire them out. Aided only by two mattresses, bedding and some slippers they conjure up images of castles, witches and sporting events (!) with imagination and energy.
Both performers help to create an inclusive atmosphere through their natural and engaging interaction with the children in the audience, and by the end even the most timid of shrinking violets were keen to participate. Dare I say it, the adults were enjoying themselves (and indeed even I forgot my initial worries of appearing as a lone, childless adult ticket bearer amidst a sea of 5-8 year olds). Any parent who just can’t face another brightly coloured screeching fat man in a suit need look no further; here there’s proof - amusing, enthusiastic and intelligent entertainment for children is possible. I’m now just planning whose child I can borrow for an excuse to go again.
- I can’t Sleep by David O’Doherty
- Assembly @ George Street
- 3rd – 25th August
- 14:20
|
