What would you do if something you loved disappeared down the loo? An important and highly serious question, answered by Split Hairs Theatre in the return of their hit show, SQUELCH!.
It could be said that there is no better topic for a family-friendly show. With resplendently sloppy wet fart noises, and a monster made entirely from toilet paper, it’s understandable why the children watching are having a rip-roaring time. And they aren’t the only ones.
In this storyline, a goldfish is the unfortunate soul flushed down the pan by one of a pair of warring brothers, played by Connor Randall. His sibling, played by Cody Thacker, is distraught, and soon disappears down the drain after his beloved pet, encountering a series of strange and peculiar creatures along the way.
Thacker presents an emotive portrayal of the role, bringing the audience fully on-board for the journey. Randall meanwhile gives a convincing performance as the more slapdash of the two brothers, all fumbling and fooling around. Together they present a believable family dynamic, supported by their mother, played by Brenda Simpson. Pleasingly, she later returns as a monster made entirely out of toilet paper. If that’s not a metaphor for motherhood, this reviewer doesn’t know what is. Simpson is gloriously expressive in both roles, and a joy to watch.
The show is near-wordless, making it suitable for all ages, yet coveys so much meaning through the action. From physical theatre and slapstick, to frankly silly singing and clowning around. The show is exquisitely enhanced by the presence of live music, composed and performed by Sarah Fowler.
The chorus of loo creatures (what a phrase) are made up of Jamie Izzet, Imber Eames and Tegwen Edwards. Their commitment to the bit creates an infectious spirit that the audience can’t get enough of. Whether they are mucking about with toilet paper or building a band, they take on their roles with absolute enthusiasm.
In this particular production in this particular venue, sight lines in higher seats are tricky for younger visitors. This venue would have been better with more action upstage. This feels like such a site-specific quibble. It must be said though, because all audience members deserve to see every slice of the action in a show as fantastic as this.
The show is conceived and directed by Rob McCloskey, who is fast building a reputation for inventive, dynamic productions with his team of highly talented young people. Split Hairs are a small theatre company with big, and justified, aspirations. SQUELCH! is their best work yet. It covers themes of loss with age-appropriate sensitivity, and manages to be both deeply emotive and deliciously daft. The balance of humour and emotion is so carefully crafted. Both children and adults are hooting with laughter and silent in appreciation in equal measure.
SQUELCH! is a sensationally silly show which will genuinely delight the whole family, a rare breed. Strap in for a trip down the toilet, and you’ll be sure to have a smashing, splashing time.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026.
The Reviews Hub Star Rating
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10
