In 2009 I went to something like 37 shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The following year Barry and I stayed in Edinburgh for three days even though I only live half and hour away, just so we could fit in more shows. The two years after we didn’t go to quite so many and last year Toby had just been born so we didn’t make it to any Fringe shows at all. But with nearly 3,000 different shows there is something for everyone so we decided this year we would make sure we ventured over the bridge with Toby and see at least some of what the Fringe has to offer for children and families.
It was a rainy day – not always ideal for a day at the Fringe, but nevertheless we made our way over this morning and headed for the Assembly George Square Gardens and the famous Spiegeltent for Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall.
We parked up the buggy and then spent a very enjoyable 50 minutes boogying away to some fantastic tunes – including a bit of Beyonce and that old favourite Nelly the Elephant! Monski Mouse was up on the stage spinning the decks while her assistants Britt and Jason got everyone moving on the dance floor. There were songs where we were all encouraged to be cats, rabbits or dinosaurs, as well as plenty of time for freestyling too. Toby was a bit unsure what was going on at first but then he seemed to really enjoy dancing with us and watching all the other kids and their mums and dads too.
Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall is suitable for under-5s and I would certainly recommend it if you are looking for something to do with little ones at the Fringe this year. Although Toby did enjoy himself (and so did we!) I would say it’s probably more fun for kids who are walking so they can throw their own shapes on the dance floor!
There’s still plenty of chance to go and dance with Monski Mouse yourself – there are shows on 3rd, 7th – 9th, and 14th – 17th August at 11am. Tickets are £6 each or you can buy family tickets (2 adults & 2 children, or 1 adult & 3 children) for £5 each.
**Disclaimer: We were kindly given tickets to attend the show – all opinions are my own.