The classic Dreamworks animated film Madagascar comes to the Birmingham stage in a charming musical version that aims to put smiles on the faces of young and old.
Madagascar the Musical is now playing at The Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham.
Dreamworks Animations produced the original film in 2005 for $75 million and the movie went on to make over $550 million at the box office.
The success led to a franchise and even spawned a stage musical which delighted fans of the animated film.
The eccentric show is a sensational blend of comedy, action, music and lots of zany frolics which the kids - and parents - will soak up with pleasure.
Fans can relax and sink into their seats as the familiar story unfolds across the stage in a blaze of bright and bold colours.
The story sticks to the structure and narrative of the film and follows the antics and adventures of a group of animals from Central Park Zoo who somehow manage to escape New York and find their way to the faraway island of Madagascar where they meet a whole host of very colourful and exotic animals.
The group from New York - comprised of Alex the self-absorbed lion, Marty the optimistic Zebra, Melman the hypochondriac giraffe who dreams of being a doctor, and Gloria the wise hippopotamus - get into all kinds of scrapes as they attempt to find their way back home to the Big Apple. Their interactions with King Julien, the lemur ruler of Madagascar, provide some of the most amazing set pieces as the stage becomes a kaleidoscope of colour, dance, melodies and kinetic action.
Special mention goes to Connor Keetley for his breathtaking performance as King Julien. He was a force of nature who sang and danced with such gusto and passion that the stage seemed to sizzle and sparkle with heat.
One of the masterstrokes of the theatrical show, which is thrillingly directed by Kirk Jameson, is the magical way the much-loved animated film is brought to life on the stage. The Selladoor Worldwide production utilises incredible puppetry by Max Humphries that will bewitch and captivate all the family. The cuteness level melts the heart. Emma Brunton's puppet direction transforms the stage into a landscape of surreal dreams and drama.
The choreography by Fabian Aloise taps into the trailblazing music and totally captivates the senses. The melodies and songs are an absolute joy and the show moves at an energetic pace.
The dancing is so infectious that children and parents were up on their feet shaking their hips to the beats and melodies that rippled and bounced around the auditorium.
Madagascar the Musical is a rip-roaring night of music, dancing and thrilling adventure for all the family.
Verdict: ★★★★★
Madagascar the Musical is now playing at The Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham until Sunday 17th March
Thrilling review.