What child doesn’t love bubbles? The SEND Bubble Show introduces audiences to Ray Bubbles, an international bubbleologist; and yes, that really is a job title. Ray creates beautiful bubble sculptures, playful effects, and little moments of wow that delight children and grown-ups alike. His shows are designed to be accessible for the whole family, and this shorter performance was geared for anyone with additional needs.

The atmosphere is calm with soft background music and subdued lighting. Ray starts gently, with the kind of spherical bubbles that you or I might blow to catch the attention of the children.

Before long, the more adventurous children (and adults) were catching bubbles, but Ray made sure that the quieter ones weren’t ignored. Always being guided by body language, he either blew bubbles over their heads or towards an adjacent companion.

Audience participation is encouraged, and once everyone is engaged, children are invited into the stage for a variety of tricks, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the show. Ray even joked that he was risking failure when two toddlers enthusiastically “helped” him with his ski slope, which only made the moment more charming.

Ray uses various gases to craft stunning bubble sculptures, special effects and magical displays. It is amazing how he creates a soap bubble carousel, a ski slope and even a tornado inside a bubble. It all adds up to an unforgettable, inclusive experience that feels magical without ever being too much.

The show was inspired by Ray’s work with special schools and is suitable for children, and adults, with additional needs. The audience at my viewing ranged from toddlers of 18 months to 6.

Overall, The SEND Bubble Show is warm, welcoming, and wonderfully gentle, with just enough sparkle to keep little ones hooked without overwhelming them. A good choice for a child’s first theatre experience. An inclusive Fringe experience that is relaxed, thoughtful, and genuinely fun.

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

Four Stars

Playing at: – Just The Tonic at The Caves – Just The Fancy Room until 23^rd August

Tickets and further information can be found following the link below

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-send-bubble-show