The Actor’s Church, Covent Garden – 3 May 2019
Reviewed by Claire Roderick
3***
Fluffy Top Productions take a light-hearted look at the highs and lows of parenthood, charting the struggles from pregnancy to parenting stroppy teenagers. Writers Emily and Pete Moody find the comedy in every stage of journey, and their songs are catchy and insightful.
The cast of nine, all wearing bright T-shirts that are familiar to any adult who’s had to sit through children’s shows, are energetic and talented, although they were poorly served by the sound balance in the church as many audience members couldn’t hear the clever lyrics over the music.
There are some sketches in between the songs that link in with the stage of parenthood the revue has reached, and these are a little hit and miss. The characters and situations are instantly recognisable, from the natural birthing zealot to school gate parents and the insane pressure and oneupmanship of young children’s birthday parties. There is also a brilliantly observed piece about translating what teachers REALLY mean in school reports.
The revue is generally well-paced but slightly overlong, with the first few songs of act two feeling like they should be grouped with those from act one as there is a big jump to parenting older children halfway through the act. I understand why the writers wanted to show the complete story of raising children right up to adulthood, but as funny as the teenage songs are, I can’t help but think that the show would be more satisfying if it was more of a Parenthood – Part 1 and ended pre-teen years, or cut some of the songs in act one to even the show out a little. A bit of a Sophie’s Choice for the writers there. Although the grandparents’ gleeful song about karma should definitely stay in!
Full of upbeat, funny songs and some very witty sketches, Parenthood has the makings of an excellent show with a few tweaks and trims. A fun and relatable night out.