Bob the Builder: The Live Show

Well, it can't be denied that I'm a big Bob the Builder fan (see my reviews in VL-11/02, 5/03, and 11/03 for proof), but this live adaptation of the stop-motion animated children's series about friendly builder Bob and his talking construction equipment buddies doesn't quite live up to the original's unique charm. Performed before an excited young audience, the stage show features actors playing Bob, Wendy, and scarecrow Spud with fake heads and hands, while faux machinery pals Scoop, Muck, and Dizzy roll around with totally awkward, remote-control-like gaits. On the plot side, mayoral assistant Mr. Bentley has a job for Bob and the crew that must be done ASAP: clean up the town's vacant lot in time for the next day's jamboree. Can they do it? Yes they can…with extra help from the audience, of course (an oft-repeated detail). Nominal tension ensues over various hitches (ranging from a lost cat to the threat of a major storm), but Bob and the gang prevail amidst 10 unremarkable tunes, lackluster dance numbers, and the line dancin' celebratory finale (streamers and confetti shoot out into the crowd). Overall, this live show would be better off…not. But Bob is prominently on the cover and this title would be quite popular, so consider as a strong optional purchase. DVD extras include bonus episodes from Bob the Builder, Rubbadubbers, and Angelina Ballerina, as well as an interactive game and read-along. [Note: also newly available in the Bob the Builder series is Snowed Under, priced at $9.99 on VHS and $14.99 on DVD.] Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)