Yesterday I escaped the ever increasing stacks of boxes and “stuff” that filled my lounge, and headed with the kids on the bus into Leeds, for a little last minute adventure and some fun to see “The Scarecrow’s Wedding” at West Yorkshire Playhouse.
The Scarecrow’s wedding is possibly the only Julia Donaldson book I failed to read to my kids whilst they have been young (mum fail), and yet whilst we were pretty clueless as to the plot beforehand, it didn’t phase us. A trip to the theatre was the perfect half term adventure, and in true Julia Donaldson/Axel Scheffler style, it was fun, witty and joyful. And we thoroughly enjoyed the production of it.
Straight from London’s West End, it tells of the story of two scarecrows “Betty O’Barley” and “Harry O’Hay” who love each other, and so of course decide to get married! Harry then sets off to search for their wedding day essentials including a dress of feathers, a bunch of flowers and a necklace made from shells, and meets all kinds of characters along the way.
Meanwhile, back home, when the farmer notices he is missing a scarecrow, he replaces Harry with the devilishly smooth but dangerous “Reginald Rake”. Dashing, daring and ever so cool, you begin to wonder if Harry will make it back on time or if Reginald will put a spanner in the works?!
Oozing with incredible talents, laughter and jokes galore, this play is engaging for all ages and actually really funny. There were so many laugh out loud moments, captivating tunes, and imaginative props and costumes. The kids loved every minute, and Megan could not sit still – (a) because she’s Megan, and (b) because she was THAT excited to be there! But it didn’t matter, as this is the perfect place to capture kids imaginations and love for the arts, all whilst embracing their wriggly ways!
Megan was definitely the most enthusiastic of my kids, whilst E played it a little more cool. She laughed, shouted along at certain points and got very involved… she danced in her seat, laughed some more, and bursted with joy. Then, as soon as the lights when up, she lent in and told me “that was THE best thing EVER and everyone just needs to see it”!!! I was delighted it was so good and that both her and Ethan had sat and enjoyed it.
I found the Actor who plays several of the characters (including the farmer) absolutely hilarious and generally incredible with every role he took on! They all have great chemistry on stage and it worked well with just the 3 actors.
Overall we thought that it was cleverly created, with a great set (something Ethan especially loved) and country style music you can’t help but toe tap along to.
We all had a wonderful day out and both Ethan (6) and Megan (almost 5) absolutely loved it. Alice too loved watching the action and bounced along to the beats of the quirky tunes.
I am loving my kids keen interest in theatre and that we had such a lovely day out yesterday to see another wonderful production at West Yorkshire playhouse, they really are the hub of great shows!
Following the fun, laughs and adventures at the Playhouse, we enjoyed a wander around the City, market and had a cheeky subway lunch. It was a lovely day and one I am glad to have braved with 3 kids in tow solo.
Why not end half term with the sound of wedding bells and a crazy farmer, and pop along for this “down on the farm” adventure. You will not be disappointed!
The Scarecrow’s Wedding is on at West Yorkshire playhouse until Sunday, and tickets are just £12.50 each. It is recommended for ages 3+ and is the perfect length once again for wriggly bum kids at just 55mins, with engaging performance throughout.
*Thank you to West Yorkshire Playhouse for inviting us to see this in return for our thoughts on the blog!
