WORDS: Lauren Rofe
“Paw Patrol, Paw Patrol, be there on the dubba!” my five-year-old gleefully sang as we made our way into the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Saturday. We were greeted by bubbles as far as we could see and soon discovered the well positioned merch stands were selling bubble blowers and my mind instantly drifted to the foam parties of my younger years. Oh how times have changed! Anyway, I digress. We were there to see PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” and my five-year-old couldn’t have been more thrilled.
I’ve been to many a concert in my time but I don’t remember feeling a room so thick with excitement as it was that day. When the PAW Patrol theme song started and Ryder, the leader of the PAW Patrol, took to the stage, every squirmy toddler in that theatre froze in awe. Ryder introduced the mission of the day – for Mayor Goodway to defeat Mayor Humdinger in the Great Adventure Bay Race.
Upon entry, every child received a printed pom-pom and Ryder quickly had the entire audience waving their pom-poms in the air and cheering for their favourite team. Soon the beloved pups – Marshall, Rubble, Chase, Rocky, Zuma and Skye – rapped and sung their way onto the stage with a dynamic song that had the young audience grooving in their seats. Next, the infamous Mayor Humdinger appeared to explain the rules to the race. As anticipation for the race grew, it was discovered Mayor Goodway was missing, so Ryder summoned the pups to rescue Mayor Goodway, and race in her place.
The remainder of the one hour show (not including the well needed 15 minute intermission) was filled with action-packed, high-energy musical numbers that showcased the cast’s impressive talents. Clever use of the sets and props truly made it feel like the PAW Patrol show had come to life, and crowd interaction was always encouraged. The surprise inclusion of another favourite pup, Everest, in the snowy mountain scenes and the reveal of the pup’s rescue vehicles had the young audience gasping and saying ‘Woooowww!”.
As the pups crossed the finish line first and received a trophy from Mayor Humdinger, the cast closed with one last celebratory rendition of “Pup, Pup Boogie”, resulting in all little bottoms off seats and dancing in the rows. My son’s favourite part was the streamer cannons at the end which was a perfect finale to a vibrant show.
Overall, PAW Patrol Live was a delightful experience that captivated both children and their caregivers alike. The engaging performances, catchy music, and interactive elements created a lively atmosphere that kept the little ones enthralled from start to finish. Witnessing my son’s excitement throughout the show reminded me of the magic of live shows. Next time they’re in town, PAW Patrol Live is a show not to be missed!
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