This afternoon we went to Thamesview Infant School to perform our version of "Fantastic Mr Fox" to 60 four and five year olds.
WHAT WENT WELL:
- Transitions were smooth (especially regarding the lack of rehearsal in the space)
- We used the space well and made adjustments to suit the performance space
[We stood in appropriate places when not performing]
- LF interacted with audience well, despite challenging responses
[A few children put their hands up to say "I don't know", but Lewis had this covered]
- CS covered the fact that his tail fell off early
[Realised children were watching the farmers, so positioned himself in a way he could reattach it
without anyone noticing]
- CS interaction with audience. He responded well and used their suggestions
[Gave suitable responses to the unexpected suggestion (e.g. "ask the other foxes for food")]
- LC performed to audience and involved them
[Made eye contact constantly and encouraged them to join in]
- OK came down to their level and involved the audience
[Had friendly body language and physically lowered himself to be more engaging]
- The audience were so engrossed they followed where we were looking
[They looked behind them for "The Woman", despite there not being one]
WHAT COULD HAVE GONE BETTER:
- Some actors should have been lighter on their feet
[Moments when some of us were too noisy on our feet]
- CS had his tail fall off too early
- RD needed to project more
[Wasn't always clear]
- Timing on the song could have been better
[We should have rehearsed with this version of the backing track earlier and more often]
- Could have got there earlier to set up sooner and discussed any changes needed
[Audience arrived when we were still setting up]
WHAT WE WOULD DO NEXT TIME:
- Get there earlier (to give us time to rehearse in the space and to make possible amendments)
- Change some jokes to make them even more suitable for the age
[E.g. change "X-Factor" to "Tweenies" or another programme they are more likely to watch]
