Lamesha Ruddock
This joyous, high-energy family musical, Tribe! The Stone Age Spectacular was the perfect way to start my day. Welcome to the Stone Age in full techni-colour with emotional depth and inspiring messaging. Perfect for musical lovers, families, comedy fans, and anyone who appreciates a beautiful display of young talent, Tribe! bursts with feel-good energy from start to finish.
Set in the Paleolithic Era, Tribe! is a story about challenging tradition, embracing who you are, and finding your true friends along the way. It reminds us there is more to people than meets the eye, and judging others does no one any favours. At its heart, it is Queen Inga’s coronation, but a myth has everyone on edge: the sabretooth tiger will return if a Princess not pure of heart ascends to the throne.
The production bursts to life with cartoon-esque palm tree projections adorned with dripping foliage, cleverly deployed to transform scenes from a science lab to a lush jungle. A jovial, upbeat jungle soundscape sets the mood, matched by tight, communal choreography that radiates joy and precision. Projections and sound effects animate the jungle with animal life, while slapstick gags land perfectly thanks to just-right comedic timing.
Queen Inga is a headstrong leader and unapologetic queen bee, while her sarcastic brother Axel brings a spark of playful rivalry. The cast’s vibrant mix of R&B, soul, pop, and funk, reminiscent of the Jackson 5, is generous with energy and connection. Ugg, the character who can only say “ugg,” delivers surprising emotional depth from turmoil to wisdom. When they finally find their voice, their melancholic, legato delivery is nothing short of captivating. The wizard-esque character adds mystical gravitas, convincingly wielding their staff and carefully utilised for the story narrative.
Costumes are a visual treat like stunning Stone Age designs that shift subtly as the ensemble transforms, from bone-adorned hairstyles to solid colour dresses marking the French contingent and the different Queendoms.
Vocals across the ensemble are consistently strong, but one stand-out number is Don’t Be Scared, Don’t Be Terrified, absolute banger, its catchy refrain paired with lighting that shifts from a soft blue wash into a fierce red top light. Another standout was the peppy French number, with its cabaret show-tune style, hilariously juxtaposing the sinister theme of cannibalism. The ensemble’s slow-motion revolution with wooden spoons was a masterclass in body control and tension.
Tribe! The Stone Age Spectacular is a sparkling celebration of community. Bear witness to a tight-knit ensemble that makes you want to jump on stage and join the tribe.
Absolutely electric. Playful. Joyous.
Performances of Tribe! The Stone Age Spectacular have now concluded at EdFringe 2025.
Jake Mace
