DREAMER IN THE DEEP Courthouse Arts Centre Until 17 Feb 2013 Review by Kylie Pedler ... a mesmerising puppet show with backlighting, fluorescent sea creatures and backdrops that create a magical deep sea adventure story. From the beautiful opening set, enhanced by the sounds of crashing waves and sea breeze, to an informative introduction by puppeteer extraordinaire, Richard Hart, who set the story’s scene, this show was off to a great start. The next 45 minutes proved truly magical, as Dreamer, a half child, half animal character, travels the sea on his yacht transforming bed in search for a key needed to rescue a leafy sea dragon caged by a greedy scorpion fish. In wetsuit and flippers, Dreamer explores the deep ocean, guided by a golden seahorse. John Grant’s original score complemented the journey beautifully. Mysterious Australian coastal waters come to life as the two travelling companions face the dangers of life underwater. Sea creatures are presented in all their exotic diversity as dancing starfish and seahorses, leaping dolphins, frolicking neon tropical fish, jellyfish, stingrays and angler fish interact and pass through their habitats. This magical visual journey, was well received by all: evident by the rapturous appreciation of parents and children alike as they discovered new sea creatures, clearly naming each one, and watched the food cycle as smaller fish were chased and eaten by larger fish. Comical moments included Dreamer falling overboard, emptying his puppy dog ears of seawater, and his head-bopping hip hop style dance moves as he drifted along. An accordion-playing crab, housed in a clam, and an opera singing cleaner shrimp provided moments for further laughter. This highly interactive performance which even included a high-five ‘meet and greet’ session with shrimp, Dreamer and seahorse was well worth the country drive. Rating: 5 stars (out of 5) DREAM PUPPETS, Melbourne based puppet theatre company, was founded in 1996 and continues its unique style of brilliantly visual productions to celebrate and stimulate the imagination. It has a range of shows available for tour and school visits. Highly recommended. The Auburn Courthouse Cultural Centre, approximately an hour from Gawler, provided the ideal dark space required for Dreamer in the Deep. Hats Inc and the community of volunteers should be acknowledged for their efforts in bringing cultural art experiences to the close knit country community and beyond.