Madagascar Live! – From Screen to Stage.

The hugely popular Madagascar animated series from Dreamworks need no introduction. Children (and I dare say adults too) from all over have been drawn to the humorous antics of Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo…not forgetting the indomitable penguins and the ‘I like to Move it Move it’ King Julien!

We brought our 22 month-old Buddy along on his first theatre outing to catch our favourite Madagascar characters live ‘in-person’ yesterday and it was a joy seeing him clapping along with his sister too!

The production attempts to recreate the first Madagascar installment. It is never easy trying to recreate digital creations into a real life theatre show. Kudos to the cast member who acted as Melman in Giraffe – that was some seriously impressive stick-walking there! In its ambitious attempt to recreate the iconic moments from the animation movie, some of the conversations were quickly glossed over making those moments, for those of us who are familiar with the movie, kind of a ‘touch-and-go’, but for the kids, they don’t seem to mind.

This LIVE stage show recreated an entire different set of soundtrack. With music styles ranging from hip-hop to rock and to soul and Big Band swing, the music and fast-paced acting kept the kids entertained. Lighting and staging were spot on, closely resembling the animated world in the movie. For fans of ‘Move it Move it’, yes, we were not disappointed at all as we dance along with King Julien himself.

Talking about the ‘king’, the highlight was of course when King Julien appeared. Just like in the movie, his presence brought the show into high gear, delivering more laughter and turned the theatre into a massive party central with colourful spot lights and strobes as parents and children bobbed and swayed. The audience’s favourite tune of the night was what else, but ‘Move It Move It’.

A sneak preview of the Madagascar LIVE! dance from its run in UK since no videography was allowed at the show.

It was also a rare bonus that the cast were around towards the end of the show to take photos with the families. The approximately 100 minute long live production comes with a 20-minute interval. Very handy especially if you’re watching with an active 22 month old. We also liked the fact also that the evening showtimes start at 6pm – not too late for little kids to miss their bedtime routines.

If you’re a fan of Madagascar Movie and have time to spare this weekend, be sure to catch Madagascar Live! before it ‘move-it, move-it’ away!