| "High Energy Clowning, Puppetry, Audience Participation” |
Wales at Edinburgh Fringe in the 2020s |
| Frogs in Bogs- Familia , Pleasance Courtyard, Edinburgh , September 18, 2026 |
The description read:“An original, bilingual, interactive, family show about superhero frog plumbers who must save the world. The show features clowning, puppetry and new music from Welsh music prize nominees HMS Morris. “Frogs has already completed 2 successful tours of Wales and has been seen by over 5,000 young people and their grown-ups.” Its presentation at the Fringe will introduce the work to UK and international programmers, with the aim of supporting future touring in 2027 and beyond.” * * * * Theatre and Art Reviews was there: “Frogs in Bogs is a delightfully chaotic family show that embraces silliness with complete confidence, delivering plenty of laughs while sneaking in an important environmental message. “Created by female-led theatre company Familia, this amphibian adventure follows superhero frog plumbers Turner and Constable as they battle contamination, confront the monstrous Megaclog and take on the villainous Cwac-Tŷ-Bach in a mission to save the waterways. “From the moment the action begins, the production throws itself into a world of playful nonsense, clever wordplay and gloriously childish humour. The show knows exactly who its audience is and never hesitates to lean into toilet jokes, fart gags and all things gross. Younger children are likely to be captivated by the constant stream of visual comedy, while adults can enjoy the inventive writing and imaginative writing woven throughout the performance. “The combination of clowning, puppetry and audience participation keeps the energy high throughout. There is a genuine sense of fun in the way performers encourage children to become part of the adventure, creating a lively atmosphere that feels inclusive rather than forced. The production understands that family entertainment works best when everyone has something to enjoy, and it succeeds in striking that balance remarkably well. “Behind the jokes and absurd characters lies a thoughtful concern for clean waterways and pollution. Rather than delivering a heavy-handed lesson, the show wraps its message inside a fast-moving comedy that encourages audiences to think about environmental responsibility. This approach makes the themes accessible to younger viewers while ensuring the performance never loses its sense of playfulness. “The colourful characters, energetic performances and infectious enthusiasm make Frogs in Bogs an easy recommendation for families with preschool and primary-aged children. Its blend of puppets, music, audience interaction and unapologetic toilet humour creates an entertaining experience that keeps children engaged from start to finish. Funny, inventive and surprisingly heartfelt, this amphibian comedy proves that a story can be full of poo jokes and still have something meaningful to say. Abridged, with thanks and acknowledgement, from the full review which can be read at: https://theatreandartreviews.com/2026/08/18/frogs-in-bogs-edinburgh-fringe-2026/ * * * * Toothpaste on Toast was there: “We are greeted by two enthusiastic performers, both wearing brightly-coloured boiler suits and miner’s helmets. They introduce themselves as escapee frogs Turner and Constable (a reference for the adults) on the run in the sewers after a wrongful conviction, and now for hire for all your clog-related problems. Things are energetic from the off, with our two frogs (‘no duct too dingy, no drain too dripping’) dancing, jumping and chatting to the audience as they investigate a contamination crime. “Even as a non-parent, the most successful kids shows are always those where the performers make the effort to include everyone, and the frogs left no stone unturned in keeping the all the children (and adults) involved and onboard, as well as teaching them several dances. The frogs have various poo-related foes to contend with, brought to life by inventive puppetry and energetic performances; these turn out to have surprising depth and a broader message which is well-realised and provokes appropriate disgust from the children. “While Frogs in Bogs was very much not aimed at my demographic, it was great to see something so wholesomely enthusiastic and passionate, shot through with Welsh language and accents.” Abridged, with thanks and acknowledgement, from the full review which can be read at: https://toothpasteontoast.com/frogs-in-bogs-review/ * * * * Edinburgh Reviews was there: “Frogs in Bogs is a joyfully chaotic children’s show that throws itself wholeheartedly into silliness. Set in an underground, sewage‑like world where mischievous frogs live among squelchy pipes and boggy tunnels, the show builds a playful atmosphere from the moment it begins. “The performers burst onto the stage with high energy, big movements and exaggerated expressions, immediately signalling that this is a space where noise, laughter and messiness are not only allowed but encouraged. “The structure is loose and intentionally chaotic, moving between songs, dancing, slapstick moments and audience interaction. Rather than relying on a traditional storyline, the show focuses on creating a sensory, participatory experience. “Children are invited to shout, wiggle, dance and copy silly actions, and the cast are skilled at managing this excitement so it feels lively without tipping into overwhelm. They know when to ramp up the chaos and when to pause, giving the audience space to breathe and follow along. “The toilet humour is constant and central to the show’s identity. There’s talk of poop, bogs, splashing, squelching and all the things children find irresistibly funny. It’s mischievous rather than crude, giving kids permission to laugh loudly at something usually considered off‑limits. The actors clearly enjoy this aspect, reacting with dramatic horror or delight that sends the children into fits of giggles. “What really stands out is the warmth and responsiveness of the performers. They handle unexpected audience comments with quick humour and kindness, making each child feel acknowledged without derailing the flow. Their physical comedy is strong, and they commit fully to the absurdity of the underground frog world, which keeps the whole thing bright, friendly and engaging. “...Overall, Frogs in Bogs is a lively, messy, joyfully ridiculous show that delivers exactly what it promises: laughter, movement, silliness and a whole lot of toilet humour. It’s perfect for young children who love to be part of the action, and it’s performed with genuine warmth and playful skill. Abridged, with thanks and acknowledgement, from the full review which can be read at: https://edinburgh-reviews.co.uk/review-frogs-in-bogs-fringe-2026/ |
Reviewed by: Adam Somerset |
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