one4review | On 06, Aug 2025

If you’re after a show completely based around a giant movie franchise set in a galaxy far, far away, this isn’t it; however, that’s no bad thing! Ignacio Lopez’s ‘Juan Solo’ brings us on board a space adventure with lasers set to fun! There won’t be any CGI, high-budget wardrobe or familiar theme tune (although tunes are supplied by a trusty furry sidekick; more on that later). We hear stories of somewhat distant father figures, adventures on trips with laser swords and even a song to the thankless life of a comedian.

This is a low-to-no-cost space mission held together with cardboard charm and pure enthusiasm (and a lot of Haribo). But what it lacks in shiny effects, it more than makes up for in giggles, and honestly, when you’re a kid being showered with sugar and flying watermelons, who cares if the spaceship looks like it’s powered by hope and stick-on moustaches?

The pure joy lies in how interactive the show is. You really have come to a comedy show, and the comedian is going to talk to you and make you part of the fun. Don’t fret; this is always at Juan Solo’s expense or his trusty sidekick ZD, who looks a bit like a mix between ‘Barf’ (Spaceballs) and another tall fictional species of hairy, humanoid alien. ZD’s mission is clearly to keep the chaos rolling, whether with thumping space anthems or having his own moment in the spotlight.

This scrappy, rebellious and joyous hour gives children their first real experience of real-life stand-up comedy, set to a backdrop of sci-fi; it’s accessible for the whole family. You’ll leave smiling, they’ll leave with a new moustache and Haribo in hand, and that’s great whichever galaxy you’re in!

 

****

Reviewed by Matthew

Hoots @ The Apex

11.10 (50 mins)

Until 7 Aug