Explosive Science Show! kids review: Chaotic vibe
Energy abounds in this inclusive voyage into the magic of science
‘Welcome to this beautiful, historical, flammable tent’: it’s a fitting start to a wildly entertaining and vibrantly educational hour. Explosive Science Show! keeps children captivated with potions and explosions, from shooting smoke rings into the audience to ‘accidentally’ setting the stage on fire in an experiment gone wrong. Parents and teachers occasionally groan. Promises to shoot accompanying adults with a water gun if they shoosh the kids, and lines like ‘who wants to see me hurt myself for the sake of science?’ make for a chaotic vibe, but one where children are ecstatic and thoroughly involved with the action on stage.
Some discussions of being ‘neurospicy’ tread a fine line between inclusive and too mature for the young audience. In particular, an invitation for a neurodivergent child to join him on stage prompts uncomfortable silences from adults watching and confused glances from the children participating. The intention is evidently to foster inclusivity but the execution results in an awkward and prolonged selection process. Nevertheless, with its sharp cues, vivid lighting and an energetic performance from mad-scientist Magnus Danger Magnus, Explosive Science Show! makes for an electric start to a morning at the Fringe.
Explosive Science Show!, Assembly George Square Gardens, until 31 August, 10am.