Review: From Grannies To Keepy Uppy, 'Bluey's Big Play' Delights San Diego Fans Of All Ages

SAN DIEGO, CA — Bluey, Bingo and the rest of the Heeler family are back in San Diego, bringing the magic of the beloved animated series to the stage in a production that's just as charming, funny and heartwarming as the television show.

"Bluey's Big Play — The Stage Show" returned to Balboa Theatre this weekend for the first time since 2023, giving families another chance to see their favorite Australian cartoon dogs in person.

When "Bluey's Big Play" first came to San Diego in 2023, I took my two older sons, now 7 and 9. This time, it was my 3-year-old's turn to experience the fun, and the show was just as entertaining as I remembered.

The 45-minute production follows Bluey and Bingo as they try to convince their dad, Bandit, to get off his bean bag and play with them. What follows is a playful adventure filled with the same humor, imagination and family dynamics that have made the Emmy Award-winning series a favorite among children and parents alike.

The beautifully crafted puppets are a highlight, capturing the familiar expressions and personalities of the Heeler family. Even the Australian white ibises, commonly nicknamed "bin chickens" Down Under, are brought to life as string-operated puppets, adding a charming touch to the production. The talented puppeteers are visible but maneuver the characters with such skill that they seem to fade into the background, allowing young audience members to focus entirely on Bluey, Bingo, Chilli and Bandit.

The familiar voices from the television series, paired with its playful music, make the production feel like an episode of "Bluey" unfolding right before your eyes.

The show features an original story by "Bluey" creator Joe Brumm, music by composer Joff Bush, and the voices of Melanie Zanetti and David McCormack, who portray Chilli and Bandit in the animated series.

And there are laughs for grown-ups, too.

Fans might even spot a couple of familiar grannies making an appearance, as Bluey and Bingo transform into their elderly alter egos, complete with funny accents and antics. During one particularly amusing moment, I couldn't help laughing, prompting my 3-year-old to remind me, "Mom, that's really Bingo and Bluey!"

That moment perfectly captured the magic of the show. For younger children, these aren't puppets or performers. They're Bluey and Bingo, right there onstage.

Throughout the performance, children cheered, laughed and eagerly joined in when the familiar theme song played, shouting, "Mum! Dad! Bingo! Bluey!"

But the fun didn't end when the curtain came down.

After the performance, the audience got to play "Keepy Uppy" for real life, with giant, air-filled balls floating over the crowd and bubbles filling the theater. Excited children reached for the big "balloons," with many making their way toward the stage for a chance to join the fun.

At just 45 minutes with no intermission, the show is an ideal length for younger children, especially toddlers who might struggle to sit through a longer theatrical production. There's enough music, humor and audience participation to keep little ones entertained without overwhelming them.

Having now experienced "Bluey's Big Play" with all three of my sons at different ages, it's easy to see why the show appeals to such a wide audience. It's entertaining for young children, nostalgic for older fans and just as enjoyable for parents.

Much like the television series itself, the stage production celebrates the simple joy of playing together and reminds parents that sometimes the best memories come from joining in the fun.

The touring production has entertained more than 2 million fans worldwide, including audiences in the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia, according to organizers.

"Bluey's Big Play — The Stage Show" continues this weekend at Balboa Theatre at 868 Fourth Ave. in downtown San Diego. Remaining performances are scheduled for 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets are available at the theater box office and BroadwaySD.com.