one4review | On 09, Aug 2017

Welcome to the Hippo Institute, and to a presentation by hippo expert Dr Zeiffal. Her job is to track down wild hippos living in Scotland, and wants the audience’s help in doing so. The eccentric scientist is wonderfully played, and keeps the audience on their toes throughout. She shows us her hippo catching instruments, including the invisible blanket, which she hilariously gets caught in.
There is of course a hippo, who manages to evade captured for much of the show, despite furious shouts of “he’s there!” from the audience. The children watching were screaming and laughing as Dr Zeiffal and the hippo chased one another off the stage, up the stairs, round the curtains and back again.
The audience were encouraged to join in, whether that be answering questions, miming, calling the hippo or guessing the contents of Dr Zeiffal’s hippo capturing kit.
The two actors were fantastic, and there was no low point to the performance. Unlike many children’s shows there are no musical numbers, which makes a refreshing change.
The show is suitable for children of all ages, and is a must see this year.

Reviewed by Claire
Assembly Roxy
August 9-14, 16-21, 23-28