Ic of ‘Noddy’ continues to enthrall kids

Jbjsaturday

he 40 minute play. Before the performance children an participate in exciting activities n the Foyer, including face paintng, colouring in, making puzzles, xploring play tents and riding little ack bikes. During the play Noddy stumbles nto Toyland after running away om Mr Carver and the toymaker’s orkshop because he was lonely. In Toyland Noddy bumps into ig Ears, who wants to know who his chap is as he does not look like toy.

Only toys are allowed to stay in Toyland. The audience has to decide if Noddy is a toy, or not.

Noddy is acted by nine-year-old Lia Sachs who is what we call an “old hand” at stage craft. Lia said she began acting when she was knee high.

“I was three when I started out in theatre, I have only played Noddy twice but I enjoy it very much. I love the costumes, the music and the make-up,” Lia said.

You guessed right – Lia wants to be a famous singer and actress one day. She said rehearsals were a very important part of the theatre.

“We are always rehearsing and we enjoy it. I even do Shani (Tessie Bear’s) make-up at home when we play. It is so much fun,” she added.

Five-year-old Molly Henry went to watch Noddy. She thoroughly enjoyed the play, especially two goblins who appear in it.

“The play was very nice and done very well. Bumpy Doll and the two goblins were my favourites and I could watch the play every day,” she giggled.

Also in the audience was Lathitha Tshaka, who also loved it.

“Not only was it funny but also very educational. It teaches you to be kind, honest and, most importantly, not to steal. The two goblins tried to steal Noddy’s car and Big Ears’ bicycle and both times they were caught and taken to the police station.

“Nobody wants to be taken in by the police because I don’t think it’s a good place to be in, so I really enjoyed the lessons in the play,” said Lathitha.

The play is directed by Caryn Reznik and Cheryl Abromowitz.

Reznik said she enjoyed working with the children because of their enthusiasm.

“They love it. They enjoy the rehearsals, the make up and just performing. It is so refreshing. They even do their own make up at home when they play, so this is real for them.

“I played Noddy when I was three so this really is something that has been in the family for a very long time,” said Reznik.

● Noddy and Friends is on Monday to Saturday at the Artscape at 10h30 until next Saturday. Tickets are R80 at the Artscape Dial-a-Seat 021 421 7695 or Computicket. Block bookings of 20 or more qualify for 10 percent discount on the top price. It is advisable to reserve tickets in advance.

Two fans who enjoyed the show are brother and sister, Nicholas and Molly Henry.