Dance review: Balletlorent: Underneath the Floorboards, Macrobert, Stirling

CREATING a show for under-fives can be impossibly hard and incredibly easy in equal measure. On the one hand, most things are still new to them, theatrically speaking at least.

So finding fresh and exciting ways to turn the average toddler’s head shouldn’t be rocket science. But on the other hand – and it’s a big but – keeping them engaged for longer than the time it takes to eat a breadstick can be a tricky business.

Hats off to Newcastle-based dance company balletLORENT for recognising this challenge and opportunity in one – and rising to it. Underneath the Floorboards has everything your average pre-schooler needs: toys, fluffy characters, a friendly companion, music to dance to, and the close proximity of a parent should you need reassurance.

Although the point of the production is to introduce little ones to the concept of dance, choreographer Liv Lorent is wise enough to know there’s only so much twinkle-toed action her young audience can take. Instead, the dancers weave their way through the children, showing their agility and suppleness, but never pausing long enough to induce boredom.

Twinkling lights, two naughty sock puppets and copious old toys found under the eponymous floorboards ensure there’s always something to keep tiny minds and eyes busy. Helping the cast to pack up toys, distribute food and dance at the party, the children don’t just watch the show, at times they are the show.

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Rating: ****