one4review | On 06, Aug 2025

Jody Kamali returns with a brand new (sort of) show, now at The Assembly Roxy. This fast-paced and high-energy show has audience members really get involved as we support My Sleepy on a journey to dream once more, avoid the treacherous Harry Bo and wonder at the ‘Dream Machine’. The purpose of this self-constructed device is to bring Mr Sleepybum’s dreams to life. There’s lots of fun to be had with a large amount of energy spent on getting audience members up to dress up as dinosaurs and donkeys while children get to chuck underwear at our poor, dreamless protagonist. We boo at Harry Bo’s no-fun rules and cheer as the Dream Machine is cranked up!

Kamali is high energy throughout and brings a lot of physical comedy and improvisation to the performance to keep the momentum as high as possible. Kids are constantly brought into the fun; there is an overall playful and unpredictable vibe throughout, almost like a big shared experience game. If you’re after something deep and meaningful, this isn’t that show, but if you want an hour of giggles and joy, this is for you and the little ones.

At points there’s so much chaos that smaller ones or those not seated in the ‘right’ place may feel a bit left out; however, the unpredictability also adds charm and keeps the show lively, with Kamali bringing enthusiasm in buckets (sweating buckets by the end). Overall, it’s a great family outing with a high-energy Fringe experience.

****

Reviewed by Matthew

Assembly Roxy

10.40 (45 mins)

Until 17 Aug (not 13 or 14)