KIDS

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sharing sandwiches the bears are ready for a fresh challenge. And there’s only one way to go: up. ‘The idea of “up” is important for young

POLAR BEARS GO UP More comic capers from the white uffy duo The last time we saw Eilidh MacAskill and Fiona Manson, they were getting into all manner of bother in Polar Bears Go Wild. A big success across the UK, the duo’s visual humour hit the spot with both adults and children. children and something they can really empathise with,’ says MacAskill. ‘They try to get up in all sorts of ways: being lifted for a cuddle; pulling themselves up to stand then walk; or reaching up for things that are too high. The image of a balloon flying up into the sky is one that most children and grown-ups can relate to as a classic, but painful, rite of passage. Usually if you let go, it sails off never to be seen again. But our bears don’t settle for that and their adventure unfolds from there.’ (Kelly Apter) Platform, Glasgow, Wed 18 May then touring.

‘The polar bears are sweet and lovable, but inherently ridiculous,’ says MacAskill. ‘Our performance style is inspired by clowning and old-school comedy double acts, like Laurel and Hardy and Morecambe and Wise, so it’s familiar and enjoyable for adults. And the bears are gentle but curious adventurers, so their exploration mirrors the way young children engage with the world.’

Having conquered two big life hurdles in the previous show climbing mountains and

74 THE LIST 7 Apr–2 Jun 2016