Review by Florence Carr-Jones
Happy Singing Kids, an Australian company from Brisbane, makes its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe with Uh Oh Spaghetti Oh!, an engaging, interactive musical and movement show tailored for children aged 0-5. Lasting a lively half-hour, this production is a delightful blend of song, dance, and joy that keeps little ones and their parents engaged from start to finish.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with stools arranged on stage for parents and children and cushioned seating on either side. A bright and sweet banner displaying the Happy Singing Kids logo and their dog, Chelsea, sets a playful tone for the show. The performance is led by Susanna O’Leary, the heart and soul of the production, with her daughters, Mischa and Georgia, by her side.
When the opening song, ‘Wibble Wobble Jiggle,’ begins, the children are swept into the fun, moving and grooving along to the music. O’Leary is a natural storyteller, charismatic and engaging with her singing, movements, and warm audience interactions. Her energy is unmatched, and it’s beautifully complemented by the support of her daughters.
The show is a trove of educational and entertaining moments—a multifaceted experience that moves through songs with different instruments, movements, and props. It is not only entertaining but also fosters learning in a joyful and relaxed environment. It’s a space where children are free to move and explore.
The music is catchy and well-crafted, available for streaming on Spotify for those who wish to keep the fun going at home. The title song, Uh Oh Spaghetti Oh, has even been adapted into a book, extending the show’s educational reach beyond the stage.
Review by Florence Carr-Jones (contact@corrblimey.uk)
Florence recently graduated with a degree in History from the University of Edinburgh, where her passion for theatre often took precedence over her academic studies. During her time at university, she was actively involved in many theatre societies, but her deep passion was with Theatre Paradok, the experimental theatre society, where she served as president this past year. She is the director and writer of her own company, Fools and Thieves, and will begin a Master’s in Drama Directing at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School this September. Florence is particularly fascinated by interdisciplinary approaches to theatre and how the medium can evolve in the contemporary world.
