REVIEW - THE ULTIMATE BUBBLE SHOW | Z-ARTS MANCHESTER | 17/05/2025

Sarah Monaghan
5 days ago
2 min read

A person in sunglasses blows a large, colorful bubble on stage. Text reads "The Ultimate Bubble Show." Vivid lights in the background.

Purple text "ALL ABOUT THEATRE" over four purple stars on white background with purple border. Bold, theatrical vibe.

The Ultimate Bubble Show – A Poppin’ Good Time at Z-arts Manchester!

On Saturday 17th May 2025, we took our bubble-loving duo, Alice (7) and Leo (6), to see The Ultimate Bubble Show at Z-arts Manchester. We attended the 11am performance and were greeted at the door with stickers for all the children—an instant win in Leo’s book! With a mix of science, magic, and pure bubbly joy, this show promised to wow the young and young-at-heart—and it certainly delivered.

A performer in orange envelops a woman and child in a giant bubble on stage. Vivid rainbow colors and joy fill the dimly lit setting.

The Bubble Quest Begins!

The show follows a charmingly sad man who finds himself swept into an adventure of epic bubble proportions. With the audience cheering him on, he takes on a series of ten bubble “levels” (plus a couple of bonus rounds!) to become the ultimate bubble master. From tiny shimmering globes to theatrical-sized bubble beasts, each trick grew more daring and delightful.

Ray Bubbles, our fearless bubbleologist and Guinness World Record holder, infused the show with high energy and genuine wonder. His use of different gases and props allowed for jaw-dropping effects—from smoke-filled bubbles to a tornado whirling inside a soap sphere. The narrative gave structure to the spectacle, keeping children fully engaged as they rooted for Ray’s success.

Man in orange shirt creates large soap bubbles using a green device on a dark stage, reflecting colorful lights, with a focused expression.

Audience Interaction & Bubble Magic

We were seated right in the middle of the auditorium, which offered a good view but not the most interactive experience. Children sitting in the front rows and on the aisles had the best bubble encounters, with Ray often walking through the aisles and sending bubbles floating over their heads. That said, Ray did make a point to involve different parts of the theatre throughout, including a few visits to the back rows.

Audience participation was a big part of the fun—Ray invited lucky children up on stage to help with his bubble magic. Leo was absolutely enchanted by the moment volunteers were placed inside a giant bubble (his highlight of the show!), while Alice was captivated by the smoky ghost bubble floating like a mini cloud. Personally, I was wowed by the elusive square bubble—bubbles with corners? Yes please!

Man in an orange shirt, blowing bubbles with a tube and torch. He stands near a table with a metal bucket on a dark stage.

Sensory Sparkle

Inspired by Ray’s work with SEND schools and neurodivergent groups across Europe, the show is carefully curated to be sensory-friendly. The soft lighting, gentle music, and flowing pace make this an excellent choice for children with additional needs—offering a calm yet exciting experience that engages without overwhelming.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Bubble Show is a joyful explosion of science, magic, and whimsy. The only thing that could’ve made it bubblier? A few more bubbles reaching our seats – but the smiles were just as big regardless! Ray’s charm, impressive bubble feats, and genuine warmth left both children smiling and adults thoroughly entertained.

If you’re after an interactive, sensory-friendly, and truly unique family day out, this show is one to catch.

✨ “You’ll be bursting with joy before the final pop!” ✨

To find out more about The Ultimate Bubble Show 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!