We had a fun family afternoon at the De La Warr Pavilion last Sunday. They had gifted us tickets to watch Horrible Histories, Barmy Britain part 3 and to be honest I had no idea what to expect. The kids all watch the TV programme (well 8 year old Miss M and Miss E do as 12 year old JJ tells me he outgrew it years ago) but he still seems to have a massive collection of the books in his room but apparently reading is different, much more grown-up!
The one hour theatre show is billed as being suitable for children aged 6 years upwards and I think it was perfectly pitched. My kids have not been to many live theatre shows before and I think TV has spoilt them somewhat as they were a little disappointed there were only two actors in it, Neal Foster and Anthony Spargo. Neal and Anthony was fantastic though, so much energy and just bouncing off each other. They were the full works as far as I'm concerned.I didn't expect to laugh so much at this stage show but it has a definite comedy edge to it. The audience were encouraged to participate in many ways with a sing along, calling out, clapping and one lucky little girl even got to go up on stage, one of mine would have loved that!
I thought the show was super clever, it was two men, one big travel case and two stacks of costumes and they dd everything in front of our eyes including changing clothes but it remained fun and the high-energy kept up the whole way through. We bounced our way though some of the major British historic events and we met King Charles II, the Puritons and Nelson. Here is a glimpse of some of the sketches -
Tickets were £12 for a child and £14 for an adult, which is really reasonable and the De La Warr (DLWP) theatre is really comfortable. We were at the back of the tiered stalls in row S and our view was perfect, so I think I can happily say there is not a bad seat in the house, wherever you sit you will be able to see well.
De La Warr Pavilion
Horrible Histories is just one of many events hosted at the DLWP there are often family friendly performances like Ben and Holly, The Christmas Sing and Tales for Toddlers.
In fact you can find all sorts at the DLWP, whatever your pleasure is, there will be something to suit - comedy, classic theatre, cinema, music and loads of amazing exhibitions.
Galleries one and two always have something new to discover and very often the entrance is free. Before the show yesterday my kids were really happy to look round 'In the Realm of Others' and watch the DVD to see how people with disabilities are creating some amazing pieces of art with this Hastings based project.
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| Installation View : courtesy NIgel Green |
The surroundings are really comfortable and it reminds me of a John Lewis cafe, really decent food and drink served in a relaxing environment. You'll pay around £7.00 for a luxury sandwich, £8.00 for a gourmet jacket potato and up to about £14.00 for a full meal but the ingredients are high quality and taste very good. Children's meals are £6.00 for 2 courses and there is always a good selection of drinks, pastries and cakes. You are worth checking the website for opening times as they vary depending on the day and season.
I am definitely say you won't regret a visit to the DLWP, whatever your reason for coming as it is a great all-round venue. Summer has to be my favourite season though as the sun is shining, the play fountains work outside and there is loads of green space to sit down and ponder life (or play if you have bought the kids). The shop is very smart and sells some quirky little gifts and we have been lucky enough to catch a few live bands out on the outdoor stage but never yet made it to one of the summer late-night open air screenings - maybe next year!
We were provided with complimentary tickets for the purpose of reviewing this stage. I have not been instructed what to write and I remain honest.
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