It's crazy to think that the vibrant world of Madagascar, voiced by Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, and Jada Pinkett Smith, came to us in all its technicolour detail 18 years ago now. It makes me feel very old, I must admit.

The movie was a smash hit because of its lovable characters, energetic music, and the unforgettable viral sensation that was King Julien - one of my favourite animated characters of all time. It was so popular that it got two more sequels and spinoffs for the penguins and for King Julien himself. The franchise has since expanded to theme parks around the world and ingratiated itself as one of the iconic animations of the 2000s.

This is why it was so exciting to go and see a theatre version of this extravaganza this past weekend at the Peoples' Theatre.

Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr. is an energetic musical that follows our favourite characters as they leave the safety of the Central Park Zoo in search of adventure out in the wild. It tracks pretty closely with the plot in the movie, but its stripped down to cater to smaller kids and to match what is possible on stage.

I was thrilled to see that they did not hold back on props or costumes and while I feel for the actors who must have been sweating buckets under those suits, it truly brings the animals alive.

The cast is a great mix of experience and youthful exuberance - and it was so cool to see children acting to a very high level amongst their adult counterparts. This added a new dimension to the show, allowing the kids in the audience to potentially see themselves on stage one day. I can't emphasize how important I think this is - to support the future of the industry in this country.

My favourite moment has to be the rousing rendition of 'I Like to Move It, Move It' that has become synonymous with this story. The wriggling and the noise emanating from the audience just showed that the energy was contagious - so much so that some of the kids just had to get up and dance. The music compelled them!

It's a great show for the young and the young at heart, and I can't recommend it highly enough. You'll leave with a pep in your step and King Julien's energy in your bones.

Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr. is on at the Peoples' Theatre from 14 March to 23 April 2023. You can buy your tickets here.

If you'd like to join my theatre club to experience shows like these, check out the details at stagedoor.co.za