Party Season - Royal and Derngate Review

Review by Sarah

Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review.

An entertaining evening of experiencing the many emotions of attending a child’s birthday party. For some, the insecurities as a child, to others, the excruciating awkwardness of their own child’s first year of school and meeting those unknown parents. The small talk, the loneliness, the chaos and the isolation. The theme of this show binds the audience together. Just remember, don’t join the WhatsApp group!

Photo by Paul Blakemore.

Party Season is co-created by The Wardrobe Ensemble, intertwining individuals’ personal stories, bringing together characters and scenarios that easily connect with the audience. We immediately warm to Daddy Xander (Tom England), who is spending a weekend navigating the unpredictable world of 5-year-old parties. As the show opens, we meet Entertainer (James Newton), bringing old school jokes and predictable comedy, who changes seamlessly into Xander’s anxiety-ridden Felix, who needs his ‘binky’ to survive social situations. 

Without a doubt, the many different characters at your own children’s party can be spotted; Chair of the PTA mum, the agreeable husband, Mum of a newborn, the fun-loving uncle and more. They all attend the party.  You may even spot your own party idiosyncrasies! 

The anticipation for a good night of fun is there and at most, this delivers. There are plenty of one-liners and character portrayals that will have you laughing out loud. There are times when it loses its way. The audience's attention is there, anticipating another comedy moment but not quite as immediate as hoped.

 

The well-designed lighting (Chris Swain) allows for a simple set and no set changes, giving space for the show to flow between storylines. The doorway lighting is incredibly effective, bringing humour to the inevitable “I’ve added you to the WhatsApp group” scenario.

Photo by Paul Blakemore

For all Parents, Aunties, Uncles, and grandparents who have attended a child’s birthday party, come and join the fun. 

⭐⭐⭐

Party Season is running in Northampton until 11th April. Tickets are available from https://royalandderngate.co.uk/whats-on/party-season/

The production then tours until 23rd May. Don't miss out on the party!

Photo by Paul Blakemore.