Get off the sofa with Boogie Pete

Feb 18 2010 by Ian Hughes, North Wales Weekly News

SUCH has been the rapturous reaction to his all singing, all dancing stage show, Pete Hillier has taken to wearing earplugs.

Pete, aka Boogie Pete of CBBC television series Boogie Beebies, says the din his show creates is genuinely incredible.

“Because it’s quite a lively production and we encourage the children to get involved as much as possible the crowd can become quite raucous at times.”

He jokes: “You tend to get used to it but there are times when I’ve had to wear ear protection!”

He takes this, though, as a sign that the second stage run of his TV show is a success.

“It’s going really well. We’re getting a really good reception. All the kids join in and most of the time the mums and dads do to!”

So much is the universal appeal of the show, Pete says there are times when he’s not sure who enjoys the show more.

“We try and get something for everybody in there. I’ve sometimes been at the supermarket and mothers will follow you around, even if they don’t have their kids with them.”

Thinking mainly about Boogie Beebies’ target audience, Pete thinks it is a great alternative to the usual children’s television.

“With most programmes the problem is kids will just sit there on the sofa and not engage with what’s going on,” he says.

“We encourage them to get involved – getting them dancing gives them rhythm and keeps them fit.”

This is the second time Pete has taken his show on the road: “I love being on tour. It’s a great chance to meet the fans face-to-face.”

Children in Rhyl will have the chance to leave their sofas and join in when the show reaches the Pavilion on February 21.

Not long ago Pete directed and starred in a production of Aladdin at the town’s premier venue. He says he is looking forward to returning.

“I spent about three weeks there with the pantomime, it was great fun. I remember the crowds being particularly good. I’m sure they’ll be just as good this time.”

For more information and tickets call Rhyl Pavilion on 01745 330000.