one4review | On 19, Aug 2023

We went into Mr Sleepybum not really knowing what to expect and as we took our seats the hero of the show is fast asleep on a bed in front of us. When he awakes you suddenly realise that this isn’t your typical family show but a dive into silly fun led by our dream walker Jody Kamali. Showing an uncanny ability to be able to sense the audience’s mood, Kamali made sure every second of the show was an open invitation to his wild dream adventure.

Parents and children (mainly parents) are invited to get involved in the dreams Kamali is remembering for us and those parents do so with clear glee as if they are suddenly whisked back to their own youth and playfulness. The audience is a sea of smiles as we are taken on dream adventures of sharks, frogs, magicians, cowboys, duvet champions and the cake thief. There is constant energy from Kamali to engage and involve us in the most playful way.

Kamali’s connection with his audience is commendable. While kids erupted in bouts of laughter at the side-splitting dream scenes, adults found themselves chuckling at the subtly crafted jokes meant just for us, and gleefully joining in the onstage antics. Managing this dynamic isn’t easy, but Mr Sleepybum does it flawlessly, ensuring everyone has their slice of fun.

For those on the hunt for more than mere chuckles, wanting an experience filled with playful chaos peppered with witty moments, look no further than Mr Sleepybum. It served as a beautiful reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a sprinkle of silliness to add sparkle to our mornings, and if this doesn’t persuade kids that sleeping a bit longer is better than a 6am rise, I don’t know what will!

****
Reviewed by Matthew
Assembly George Square – The Box
11.40 (45 mins)
19, 20, 26 and 27 Aug