This weekend we went along to our favourite West London hotspot – The Polka Theatre, for the press show of ‘The Colour of Dinosaurs‘
This is a show like no other- a live band and a real life famous palaeontologist Dr Jakob Vinther, take to the stage to explain how we have come to know so much about the dinosaurs who roamed the earth millions of years ago. With catchy songs they break down some the science- what are cells? What is Melanin? What are Fossils? And ultimately what do these things teach us about dinosaurs and ourselves?
This is an accessible, entertaining and educational dinosaur jam – think Jools Holland meets Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures! The headliners here are music and science with an ever present through line of inclusivity and the importance of embracing our innate uniqueness and differences.
If you are expecting puppetry or life sized dino recreations, you won’t find them here but you will find real fossils, tons of audience participation, unfaltering pace and lots of great musical performances.
Vinther uncovers the science behind what made the dinosaurs different in an interactive exploration of cells, melanin and pigmentation. However as the show progresses the focus gradually moves to the differences we can see in one another with each cast members volunteering their own traits in the wonderful and later reprised ‘I didn’t know that about you’.
Worth particular mention is a touching interlude by the stunning songstress Victoria Oruwari. Unable to see, she reveals how she allocates colour to voices and we see her scan the room identifying a ‘colour’ for each of the children’s voices. Also discussed are hearing impairment, ADHD, cultural traits and our individual skin colours – all as examples of our vast and varying human gene pool.
This is a talented cast which exudes musical prowess, diversity and a real enthusiasm for prehistoric creatures. Dinosaur enthusiasts and scientists in the making will particularly enjoy with opportunities to volunteer their knowledge and participate in the action. But for all children the show offers valuable lessons on empathy, acceptance and love for one another.
The Colour of Dinosaurs is spot on for its target audience of 6-12yrs although my 5yr old was just about able to enjoy and follow with ease. I would probably consider leaving younger siblings at home if possible.
The Colour Of Dinosaurs is directed by Dom Coyote with music composed by Lloyd Coleman, and written by Malaika Kegode. Showing at The Polka Theatre, Wimbledon from 11th May -9th June.
Performed by Dom Coyote, LLoyd Coleman, Jakob Vinther, Victoria Oruwari, Harry Miller and Roxana Vilk.
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