Theresa Koorey reviews Sportsball, presented by Cubbin Theatre, directed by Melanie Luckman, at the Cloisters Studio at Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, Saturday 31 August 2024.
Entering the intimate Cloisters Studio with my 3 year old, we are greeted by an equally intimate setup of cushions and chairs surrounding them. A taped marked out area and colourful hanging cylinders complete the simple staging.
Chris Moore, the sole actor, first comes out as himself, explaining what the marked area is for and that he will be playing a character called Tai. After a quick trip off-stage to grab a large red yoga ball, he returns in character. Tai is an exuberant young boy, who along with his Dad, loves everything about sports. The simple storyline allows children to easily follow along. Tai has been invited to his friend’s sport-themed birthday party. He is so excited and wants to practise ALL the sports before the big party day and uses his red ball to do so.
Moore seems well versed in both character acting and comedic timing. His natural athletic ability comes through clearly as we are treated to Tai exploring and practising his tricks and impressive moves. It is a testament to Moore that you absolutely believe you are watching a boy of 4 or 5 figuring out his abilities, capabilities and emotions. The message that ‘I can do hard things’, and what to do when things don’t quite go as you had imagined, are echoed within the larger themes of resilience and playfulness.
The athletic movements and performance from Moore garnered peals of delightful giggles throughout the young audience for much of the show at our session. Older members of the audience will be equally entertained as well. The red ball is utilised skillfully and almost takes the part of a second character. There are some moments of more nuanced emotional expression which may be lost on the younger viewers. My 3 and a half year old understood the basic emotional arc but definitely a slightly older child would gain even more understanding.
Although less musical than other Cubbin performances we have been to, music is used to good effect to create context and tone. Welcoming and suitable for all ages, it probably does suit ages 4-6 best, matching the approximate age of the character. The show itself is well-paced at just over 30 minutes and the simple changes of lighting were a delight for my daughter who enjoyed seeing her hands change colour.
The audience are rewarded at the end by a wonderful playful surprise and a chance to come “on-stage” and chat to the actor. I enjoyed talking to him also, and was not surprised to find out about his dance and parkour background.
Afterwards, the location begs for a run-around and to explore the wonderful surrounding Arts Centre Precinct. Once again, Cubbin Theatre has offered up a fabulous opportunity for young children to see a fun and engaging show full of positive and important themes, and to get used to theatre in an inclusive, immersive and enjoyable way. You also might just leave wondering why is a dribble called a dribble in sports?
Sportsball played from 29 August – 1 September 2024.
Flat City Field Notes 