Olaf Falafel’s kids’ show at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe is exactly the kind of performance that understands what makes a modern child laugh. Fast-paced, energetic and packed with puns, like ’67’ and ‘unc’, it keeps children entertained from start to finish.
One of the show’s biggest strengths is its clever use of wordplay. The puns come thick and fast, but importantly, they feel relevant to a new generation of children. There is a real sense that the jokes have been created with today’s kids in mind, rather than simply recycling the same old children’s comedy. The humour is silly without feeling dated, and the audience is constantly encouraged to listen out for the next ridiculous punchline and whether they will be called on to help Olaf with whatever stupid thing he is doing on stage.
The pace is relentless, in the best possible way. There is very little time to get bored, with jokes, stories, audience interaction and physical comedy following one another at lightning speed. Olaf has a brilliant ability to keep the energy high.
It is also a show that doesn’t take itself too seriously. At times, things become gloriously messy, adding to the chaotic fun. While for a second the audience might think something has gone wrong suddenly the mess becomes part of the entertainment, creating some of the biggest laughs and making the performance feel spontaneous and unpredictable.
Overall, Olaf Falafel’s Fringe show is a brilliantly silly piece of family entertainment. It is quick, witty, pun-filled, and occasionally chaotic, with enough energy to keep even the most easily distracted children engaged. Most importantly, it makes the children feel seen and included, not just with words but with the performance itself.
Olaf Falafel’s Stupidest Super Stupid Show: This Time It’s Stupider, 11:30, The Ballroom at Laughing Horse @ The Counting House, 5th -30th (not 19th , 25th, and 26th)
