reviewvancouver: The Daisy Theatre

Ronnie Burkett is a genius puppeteer. Tonight the theatre is sold out again. His act is spontaneous and apparently unscripted as he strides onto the stage to introduce himself. He is charming and funny. Many of the audience members have seen him before and show excitement as they anticipate another great performance. They are not disappointed. The marionettes are well designed with wonderfully animated bodies and faces.

Burkett not only makes people laugh but he has a fabulous ability to pull at people’s heart strings. He makes us feel sorry for a little puppet “fairy child“ that lacks self confidence.

Bringing audience members into his acts is a real plus. Tonight the young gentleman he chooses to operate his Einstein looking pianist pulls off a few funny moves on his own to the delight of the audience. If you have not seen an adult puppet show before then I suggest you get down to see Ronnie Burkett. He will raise your spirits and present you with a refreshingly rare act.

He brings a lady audience member to uncover the orchestra pit where the musicians are all playing a variety of instruments. Before she leaves the stage the puppet asks for a kiss which she cutely grants and off the stage she goes.

Burkett’s interaction with the audience is wonderful. His dialogue is fast, non-stop, and flows with many years of experience from the ripe old age of 7. Because each performance is an improv you never know what is going to happen, what is going to be said but the innuendos will be funny.

If you want to wipe your worries away, come down and spend a joyous evening with Ronnie Burkett and his charming cast of puppets. We are thrilled as we leave the theatre. I have never seen an act like this before and it is inspiring. Laughter comes easily and it flows all night long..