REVIEW - THE GIANT BALLOON SHOW | Z-ARTS MANCHESTER | 03/05/2025

Sarah Monaghan
May 4
3 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

Performer in theatrical setting with giant red balloon as head. Text reads "Dizzy O'Dare: The Giant Balloon Show!" Warm lighting, ornate decor.

Purple stars on a black background with the text "All About Theatre" in pink above. The design has a star rating theme.

Big Laughs, Bigger Balloon!

We recently took a family trip to Z-arts Manchester to see The Giant Balloon Show, and from the moment we walked into the auditorium, we knew we were in for a treat. My children—Alice (7) and Leo (6)—were instantly captivated by the pumping 80s soundtrack and an enthusiastic warm-up that got all the kids dancing before the show had even started. It was especially lovely to see Alice, who’s often a little shy, get up and dance with a big smile on her face!

At The Giant Balloon Show children in colorful outfits perform on stage with a performer under vibrant lights. Audience watches, creating an energetic, lively mood.

What’s the Show About?

The Giant Balloon Show is exactly what it says on the tin—an explosion of balloons, comedy, and interactive theatre. Performed by the hilarious and high-energy character Dizzy O’Dare, this one-man show is as bold and bouncy as the balloons it features. Originally created over ten years ago for Covent Garden, it has since toured the globe, entertaining audiences at international street festivals, fringe events, and theatre stages alike.

There’s a playful mix of balloon tricks, slapstick clowning, and dance breaks throughout. Children are invited up on stage, the audience gets involved in Mexican waves, and there’s plenty of bouncing, clapping, and giggling all the way through. The energy is electric, and the atmosphere is a non-stop party.

The Giant Balloon Show -Performer on stage holds a yellow balloon sword aloft, wearing a vest and bow tie. The background is dark, creating a dramatic scene.

Sound, Sensory and Atmosphere

The show is loud, colourful and full of surprises—a sensory treat for most kids, but something to be mindful of if your child is sensitive to sound. My son Leo brought his own ear defenders, which meant he could enjoy all the fun without feeling overwhelmed. Z-arts also had child-sized ear defenders available to borrow from the front of the auditorium—such a thoughtful, inclusive touch that really stood out.

The soundtrack is an absolute 80s dream, packed with bangers like Jump by Van Halen, Rhythm of the Night by DeBarge, Jump by The Pointer Sisters, and The Power of Love by Huey Lewis & the News. It had the whole room toe-tapping, head-bopping and full-on dancing from start to finish—grown-ups included!

Th Giant Balloon Show - Performer in a colorful striped outfit inflates a large red balloon with a blower on stage, standing on a red checkered mat, with dark backdrop.

The Star Performer

The performer playing Dizzy O’Dare was a master of crowd work, expertly blending clowning, comedy, and child-whisperer magic. Whether they were balancing balloon tricks or orchestrating dance parties, they brought a warmth and charisma to the stage that kept the kids giggling and the adults chuckling. There was never a dull moment, and the audience participation felt natural and joyfully inclusive.

And then, of course, came the giant moment—the finale where Dizzy O’Dare climbs inside a giant red balloon. The room was filled with gasps, laughter, and total awe as the performer disappeared into the balloon and bounced around. It was bizarre, brilliant, and completely unforgettable.

The Giant Balloon Show - Performer with red balloon on his head flexes on stage, wearing a striped outfit. Dark background, red mat, and a wooden cabinet behind.

Conclusion

The Giant Balloon Show is silly, spectacular fun for families. It offers a perfect introduction to live theatre for young children, and it’s just as entertaining for the adults too. It’s interactive, high-energy, and full of surprises—with just the right dose of chaos to keep everyone laughing.

🎈 A small show that plays BIG – The Giant Balloon Show is pure pop-tastic fun for the whole family! 🎈

🎈 To find out more about The Giant Balloon Show and where it’s heading next, click the button below to visit the official website.

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🎭 And if you're looking for more fantastic family-friendly events, click the button below to see what's coming up at Z-arts—there's always something fun just around the corner!