Hello Birds is a gentle introduction to the theatre for very young children, and it knows its audience well. As families come in, they are invited to sit on cushions around a garden play mat, which immediately makes the space feel relaxed and inviting rather than formal.

Different puppet birds appear as the show goes on, and the children are encouraged to join in: finding food for the robin, helping a blue tit line its nest, and spotting things in the garden. The mix of songs, simple tasks, and keyword signing is handled clearly, without making the piece feel over-explained.

The storyteller has an easy, encouraging manner and keeps the children involved without pushing them. At times, with so much interaction happening around the mat, the performance becomes a little busy, but it is always brought back with patience and good humour.

The staging is one of the show’s real strengths. The garden mat gives the piece a clear centre and lets the children feel close to the action. Small details, from the tactile props to the handmade felt birds, make the garden world feel carefully put together without becoming fussy.

The lighting is also used well as the shifts help mark the day moving on, from the blackbird at dawn to the owl at dusk.

The puppets are charming, especially when the children are invited to feed the birds with brightly coloured play fruit and berries. The owl provides a sensational ending. Lit from below, it drew the attention of every child and adult.

What works best about Hello Birds is that it trusts quietness. It does not need to be loud or frantic to keep children interested. That said, the developmental gap between newborns and three-year-olds is vast, and a slightly narrower age range might help the piece feel even more focused.

Hello Birds is a carefully made and quietly engaging first theatre experience, full of small moments that children can recognise, touch and join in with. Its ambition is clear, and it succeeds because it keeps things simple.

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

Four Stars

Playing at:-  33 Pleasance Courtyard – The Green   until 25th August

Tickets and further information can be found following the link below

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/hello-birds