Get ready to clap your hands, tap your feet, and maybe even dance in the aisle — because Madagascar The Musical has come to life on stage, and it’s even more colourful, funny, and exciting than the movie!

During the July school holidays, we joined Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo, and the hilarious King Julien for a big, musical adventure. They start off in Central Park Zoo, where life is comfy and safe… but Marty dreams of exploring the big, wide world. When he escapes, his friends follow — and before they know it, they’re on a crazy trip that lands them in the jungles of Madagascar.

From the very first song, the music is so catchy you can’t help but bop along. Alex has big Broadway-style numbers, Marty’s full of energy and fun, Gloria’s got sass and warmth, and Melman… well, Melman is one of the funniest characters of all, with his long giraffe neck and silly, nervous personality. And then there’s King Julien — short in height, huge in personality! He’s the party king who gets everyone dancing to “I Like to Move It, Move It,” and trust me, you’ll be singing it for days.

One of the coolest things about the show is the costumes and puppets. The actors look just like the animated movie characters, right down to Alex’s mane, Marty’s stripes, and Gloria’s tiny tail and ears. The penguins are puppets — but you’d swear they’re real! The puppeteers are so talented, they make the penguins walk, talk, and dance their way through the story, even steering the ship that takes everyone to Madagascar.

Melman’s costume is extra clever — the actor operates his long neck and head with a stick and strings, so his face can sing at shoulder height while the giraffe head bobs and moves above him. It’s so funny to watch, and it really brings the character to life.

The dancing is amazing too. Some of the costumes are huge, so the choreography has to match what each character can do — but it’s still packed with energy and movement. Every number is full of colour, rhythm, and laughs. Even if you’ve never seen the movie before, you’ll be swept up in the fun.

At its heart, Madagascar The Musical is about friendship, freedom, and finding where you belong. It’s perfect for preschoolers and primary school kids, but parents and older siblings will have a great time too. There are plenty of jokes, heaps of action, and enough toe-tapping tunes to make the whole family smile.

So, whether you’re already a huge Madagascar fan or this is your first time meeting Alex, Marty, Gloria, Melman, and King Julien, this show is a must-see. It’s bright, it’s funny, and it’s bursting with life. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve been on your own holiday to the jungle — and you’ll definitely want to get up and “Move it, Move it!” one more time.