Words: Alex Grunberg

4 Stars

An unusual little boy disrupts the routine of a grumpy old man, helping him rediscover the wonder of the world around him. And wonder is found through a shifting outlook on life and a magical point of view throughout “Whale, Where Are You Going?” Even the simplest props from the playroom-esque set take on fantastic qualities in the hands of the professional clowning cast. In this seaside slightly surreal world, even a simple sheet of plastic can become something beautiful.

A charming score and immersive sound design draw you into the joy and drama of the adventure, from light playful moments to danger and drama. The cast moves through the audience with interactions that feel very welcome and inviting, bringing the world to the viewer. Through props and light, the audience enters the story that is artistically woven around them.

There are lovely moments of puppetry, including a fun sequence involving paper airplanes – a sweet and imaginative moment infused with airy adventure and light-hearted happiness. The puppet of the little boy is brought to life with energy and playful personality by the deft puppeteers.

The show reaches the height of its creativity in the shadow puppet sequences. While all of them were lovely, my favourite was a shadow show of unusual creation that incorporated surprising shifts of perspective.

A soothing, charming, and unconventional show.

Taiwan Season: Whale, Where Are You Going?
Downstairs at Assembly Roxy
10:10
31 July – 24 August