What’s it all about?
Extraterrestrials who consider the human race wasteful in their restricted use of undercrackers – you know, just wearing them – so pinch them and whisk them back to their planet. Except, like an episode of Star Trek, they also beam up a wearer of such garments named Timmy.
How do they tell the story?
With the cutest alien puppets this side of the Dagobah system, a handful of catchy songs, plenty of witty bits that only the parents will pick up on – what does the triangular washing symbol actually mean?! – more shouty audience participation for the younger audience members and pant-loads of enthusiasm.
What did the kids like best?
The tiny alien who appears from Timmy’s pants drawer then snaffles his startling selection of smalls away like a mischievous shrew.
The opportunity to share their thoughts on exactly what colour unmentionables Timmy’s mum should purchase when an entire washing-line full goes missing.
And, of course, the most loveable aliens since Alf was cancelled.
In a nutshell?
A pantastic treat for kids, parents and fans of intergalactic travellers who are definitely not from Uranus.
Will my little one like it?
If they know the Underpants books – and you’ll be hard pressed to find a littl’un that doesn’t – they’re sure to love the stage show. Even if they haven’t come across the story before – and my tiny theatregoer actually hadn’t – the enthusiasm, cheeky fun and loveable aliens make the show 55 minutes of brilli-pant fun.
Trip tip
Aliens Love Underpants is playing at the Leicester Square Theatre, which is handily close to M&M’s World for a chocolaty treat and just across the square from TKTS, if you want to see what deals are available for other family treats or more grown up theatrical fare.
Aliens Love Underpants is playing at the Leicester Square Theatre until 31 August. You can book tickets through the show’s website.