Bubbles, hula hoops and beachy silliness are just some of the delights Courtney Wagnor and Jacob Watton gleefully throw at their audience in the wonderfully playful The Great Beach Adventure.

The premise is simple: Courtney and Jacob are heading to the beach. What unfolds, however, is a colourful, energetic and laugh-out-loud interactive experience that has children completely engaged from the very first moments. Families quickly find themselves grinning along as the performers invite the audience to join them on an imaginative seaside journey.

The comedic chemistry between the two performers is immediate and infectious. There is no attempt to quiet enthusiastic young audience members — instead, their shouted predictions, observations and delightfully unfiltered commentary are embraced and woven seamlessly into the show. At one point, an excited child confidently announced the group was heading into “eternal darkness,” a moment that was met with quick wit and playful improvisation. Courtney and Jacob roll with every unhinged comment so smoothly that it feels like part of the script.

The show is a joyful mix of physical comedy, circus-style skills and a choose-your-own-adventure feel. It moves at a brisk pace while remaining easy to follow, ensuring children never feel lost or overwhelmed. Hula hoops become animals, bubbles drift across the space, and an enormous sea monster makes a memorable appearance, all without turning into chaos.

Importantly, the absurdity never becomes grating. This is not a children’s show that leaves parents groaning — there’s plenty here for adults to enjoy alongside their kids. Clever use of sound effects and music cues, pitched at just the right volume, keeps the energy high without sensory overload.

With clever storytelling, imaginative play and performers who genuinely understand young audiences, The Great Beach Adventure flies by in a joyful blur. If you’re looking for a Fringe show that delights children and adults alike, this one is well worth packing the metaphorical sunscreen for.

3.5 stars
The Great Beach Adventure
Sat, 21 Feb – Mon, 09 Mar
Gluttony
Rated G

Tickets here