Marcel Lucont’s ‘Les Enfants Terribles’ has taken the Edinburgh Fringe by storm delivering an uproarious gameshow that celebrates the mischievousness of awful children. Playing to a packed audience at the Assembly George Square Gardens in the Piccolo tent, this unique show brings together laughter, audience participation, and unexpected twists. At first, I wasn’t sure if it was going to be an entire show roasting the kids as at first, it was mostly the parents who were laughing but things soon turned!
Marcel Lucont effortlessly set the stage for an afternoon of hilarity by introducing the premise of the show with a ‘theme song’. This quickly led the audience to realise they should be expecting sharp observation and deadpan wit, whilst also expecting the unexpected as a LOT of audience participation would be required. ‘Les Enfants Terribles’ thrives on audience participation – requiring the young and old alike – ensuring that spectators become an integral part of the comedic chaos unfolding on stage. From wild challenges (the running with scissors round), to clever wordplay (the kids become politicians) and unexpected surprises (the teacher’s pet round!), the show guarantees an experience that is both interactive and uproarious.
For me, the unforgettable moment was when my manically grinning daughter took to the stage. She’s not really one to volunteer for anything, but couldn’t resist the chance to share my ‘most embarrassing moment.’ I had imagined she would opt to tell the story of how I cut off my thumb, but no. In a bid to secure victory, Katie told the audience that a ‘few’ years ago, I had once eaten a monopoly card in order to win a game. Obviously, I didn’t get the chance to explain that a ‘few’ years ago was actually well over 30 years and had to confirm that it was essentially true. For the record, it was Trafalgar Square and my brother had bought it to prevent me from getting the set. Eating the card was the most obvious solution at the time.
It was clear however, the audience weren’t there for the truth and they greatly enjoyed Katie’s telling of the event and Lucont’s subsequent (very funny) response. She won the round and made it to the grand final… the chance to be crowned ‘Edinburgh’s most awful child’. Personally, I felt she was in with a good chance having just told of my competitive exploits. However, the eventual winner, a boy pretending to be a monkey, did showcase the unexpected surprises that ‘Les Enfants Terribles’ has in store!
While Marcel Lucont’s ‘Les Enfants Terribles’ aims to showcase just how awful children can be, it does so in a lighthearted and joyous manner that appeals to both young and old. The show’s ability to embrace the mischievousness of children while generating laughter and entertainment for all is truly commendable. I would recommend this one for slightly older children (7+) as some elements of the show did need a level of understanding, although there were plenty of silly moments too. The Piccolo tent within Assembly George Square Gardens provides an intimate setting, allowing for an up-close and personal experience that the Fringe thrives on but equally, allows enough room to be able to melt into the crowd… just control your children!
Note: We were gifted tickets for the purpose of this review – but if you’re seeking an unforgettable experience at the Edinburgh Fringe that will leave you in stitches, Marcel Lucont’s ‘Les Enfants Terribles’ is a must-see. Don’t miss the chance to join in the laughter and witness the hilariously horrid world of awful children at Assembly George Square Gardens in the Piccolo tent until August 21 – tickets are available here.