Curly hair, trunk hose, and Elizabethan ruff- costumed actor Garry Starr has a play to write. The only thing stopping him? The jungle in his mind.
You would really think it was going to be a period piece based on how Garry’s dressed as he swings onto stage, but no. It is actually just a silly and charming shows about procrastination and keeping yourself sane as you try to create. It probably isn’t the first thing you would think of to base a children’s show on. You would hope at least, that the mental health issues would be heard for children to understand, let alone have experienced.
However, it’s very digestible and touches on its themes subtly rather than trying to preach to the uninterested. The use of monkeys as the metaphor for the show’s greater meaning is so perfect. It carries the theme for those who care to understand what Garry’s really trying to say, and is fun enough to entertain the kids who just want to be distracted with something silly.
Of all children’s shows I’ve seen this fringe, this one was the one which got the heartiest laughs from the adults in attendance. I’m convinced the adults enjoyed it just as much if not more than their kids- Garry has an elegance in his delivery which lets him knowingly play to both demographics. If I had children, this would be the show I would take them to. I’d know they’d have a blast and I’d be laughing along with them.
Monkeys Everywhere, Pleasance Courtyard, 11:30, until August 25.
