The Bugalugs Bum Thief
The Bugalugs Bum Thief is a delightfully funny stage production catering to kids and families. Riverside Theatres has presented a genuinely entertaining show with Red Line Productions.
Based on the hilarious book by Tim Winton and adapted for the stage by Sandra Eldridge, Tim McGarry, and Eva Di Cesare, this show is, as promised, a truly bum-tastic adventure for its audiences as a small town awakes to find the crime of all crimes has gripped the town. No one has a bum! They have all been stolen.
The scene is set in the whimsical Bugalugs, a rustic fishing spot with a busy stage setting that immediately grabs the attention of little audience members as they settle in munching popcorn, asking how long till showtime.
The lead characters in The Bugalugs Bum Thief are Skeeta Anderson, Mick Misery, and Billy Marbles. Skeeta, a spirited and determined young protagonist with infectious energy and enthusiasm, captures the audience's hearts from the moment she takes the stage. Mick and Billy are the perfect companions to Skeeta, each bringing their unique quirks to the trio and playing a host of hilarious townspeople.
After an energetic song to start the show accompanied by a fabulous drummer who serves as a fourth part of the team, the audience journeys alongside Skeeta, Mick, and Billy as they unravel the mystery. Lots of laughs follow plenty of perfectly hammed-up adventures and well-timed humour.
The stage becomes a playground for the characters as they navigate the town searching for the elusive bum thief. The clever use of props and set design enhances the fun and crazy atmosphere of the production, bringing the little old world of Bugalugs to life before the audience's eyes with plenty for little ones to look at and remain occupied.
Through their interactions and adventures, Skeeta, Mick, and Billy showcase the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and friendship, instilling valuable lessons in young viewers while entertaining them with their escapades.
The trio breaks the fourth wall on several occasions, much to the audience's delight. Encouraging some audience participation, a couple of the kids get to take to the stage themselves.
The Bugalugs Bum Thief is a delightful and charming production that celebrates the magic of storytelling and the power of imagination. It's a fun theatrical song and dance mystery full of adventure in Bugalugs. Plus, it's about bums. The kids will love it.
Nicole Smith
Photographer: Phil Erbacher
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