Presented by Seoul-based artistic collective Creative Group SSAK, Dream Space is a masterclass in non-verbal storytelling. SSAK specialise in contemporary visual theatre and puppetry that transcends language barriers. The artists cleverly combine mime, dance, slapstick comedy, and puppetry together with a live drum soundtrack to captivate their young audience, smashing any potential language barriers.

Upon entering the tent, artists greet the families with cheerful sing-song tones and bubbles floating through the air, instantly dissolving any pre-show stress created by the heat or bored children waiting in line. Once everyone is seated, the cast dances onto the stage, creating their own music with a chorus of kazoos. They are bright and playful as they invite children onto the stage for a brief twirl amongst ocean-blue silk ribbons. They give every child who wants to participate an opportunity and a round of applause, resulting in a lot of big happy smiles.

Dream Space presents three distinct stories with different tones and puppetry styles. There is a brief break between each, where the cast engage with the audience and bring up the house lights. This is a breath of fresh air for children who might need a movement break. Just like their music, whether live or pre-recorded, nothing is too loud or overwhelming. It is a truly sensory friendly show, no sound protectors required.

In the first story, an old man embarks on a voyage to find a wizard, hoping to restore magic and defeat treacherous storms threatening his village. Puppets converse in a cute invented language – silly and expressive. 

In the second story, we meet two shipwrecked sailors on a desert island. They must decide between escaping in a makeshift boat, or keeping their newfound pirate treasure. Their slapstick comedy delivers big laughs and a gentle lesson in priorities.

The third story shifts tone. A humpback whale glides across the stage through a sea of misty blue light, its barnacles glowing from within. Nearly silent, this story relies entirely on the exquisite articulation of the puppets. The whale befriends a lonely young girl who dreams of swimming through the ocean, and their tender friendship and adventure enchants the young audience.

Gentle, joyful, and captivating, Dream Space is family theatre at its best, a quiet gem of this Fringe season.