Serious Nonsense (for Terribly Grown-Up People)

Spoken Word (family-friendly, poetry)

Description

Funny, horrible and a little bit naughty, this poetry show is perfect for children no matter how old. Meet the chaotic kids, gruesome grown-ups and bizarre beasts that fill the imagination of Ben Macpherson (BBC Radio 4 Extra) and his debut poetry collection. Expect energetic rhymes, masterful storytelling and laugh-out-loud moments from this verbal tour de force. If you like Roald Dahl, David Walliams or Spike Milligan you are going to love this whirlwind of words. 'Fantastic' (Michael Rosen). Part of the PBH's Free Fringe.

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General venue access

  • Accessible entry: Information not supplied
  • Wheelchair access type: Not fully wheelchair accessible

  • Stairs: 11- 20
    Number of stairs is provided as guidance and is not in addition to any wheelchair access type (lift/ramp etc) stated above.

Each venue can contain several space with different accessibly information. Visit the venue page for full venue accessibility info


How and when to make an access booking

Our access tickets service is available to anyone who:

  • Would like to book specific accessibility services, e.g. a hearing loop, audio description headsets, captioning units, seating in relation to the location of the BSL interpreter
  • Requires extra assistance when at a venue
  • Has specific seating requirements
  • Is a wheelchair user
  • Requires a complimentary personal assistant ticket to attend a performance

Eve Connolly 32 days ago

What a wonderfully delightful way to spend an hour!! I’m 53 & Ben skilfully & paternally took me back to the joyful & magical childhood world of laughing at the weird & ridiculous nature of humanity - with my, now dusted off, fresh child eyes. I could have spent all day listening to his wonderful, hilarious & sometimes gory rhymes. I have bought his book so I may prolong the joy & I will be able to hear his beautiful voice in my head - now I have been lucky enough to be present as he performs live. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!!

Alice Connolly 32 days ago

Ben's poetry is brilliant and hilarious!! And he has such a wonderful raport with the audience - he makes you feel like you're his best friend!! Don't miss the opportunity to see his show!!

Orla Ratcliffe 35 days ago

Go see this show,
Go see this show,
Go see this show,
The poetry's better there.

John Morris 37 days ago

If you (or potentially even your kids) like Roald Dahl or like a bit of slapstick violence in your poetry then this is the show for you. Ignore the waft of burrito juice and be transported to the worlds of Serious Nonsense performed flawlessly by the ever talented Ben Macpherson. I want to see this show with full staging, or even just a set of lights, but still an epic treat that's surprisingly accessible to all.

Emily Brady 37 days ago

Hilarious and heartwarming, a mix of hilarious, horrible and sweet - would recommend to anyone of any age!

Polis Loizou 43 days ago

Ben is not only a very witty poet, he also has such a charming and engaging stage presence. This show is a wicked little delight (and parents will definitely have a good time too).

Nick Tyler 44 days ago

An hour of smart and funny, cleverly-rhymed and vocabulary-busting poetry aimed at children but just as enjoyable for adults.

Lucas Mannion 45 days ago

Ben's storytelling is wonderfully silly, which manages to mask some darker and often gruesome themes. He is an absolute delight to watch, reciting his poems with theatric enthusiasm - you can tell he loves what he does, and is excellent at involving the audience in his show. He is particularly patient with children, taking the time to answer their questions and picking poems they ask for. Would recommend to all ages

Phoebe R 45 days ago

Ben's poems are full of whimsy and delight, suitable for any and all ages. His mastery of words is a pleasure to hear, and his performance captivating. Roald Dahl-esque in his gruesome tales, you will chuckle at good rhyme, sit up a little taller, and leave a little brighter in your day.

Lynn Howe 46 days ago

This is a true delight for any age, he is such a great storyteller, strangely patient in the venue with all the noise. He was lovely with the children there and gives humour and fun within or after the poems. I am delighted to have his book to enjoy, all the lovely poems and so much to smile about within. A must go and see show.

Rachel Century 49 days ago

We know this is 8+ but my 7 year old loved this show! He asked me to buy the book before Ben had even finished promoting it and he started reading it before I'd finished paying! Ben was excellent, both the content and the delivery and whilst some poems may have gone over my 7 year old's head, we both thoroughly enjoyed the show.
5 star review from us!


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