It’s school holidays in Wellington, and Tom Knowles and Jeff Parsons (performing as ‘Jeff Parsnips’) take to the Circa Theatre stage with its latest children’s offering, All The Things I Wish I Could Be: a 45-minute musical adventure that is a celebration of possibility, identity and good old-fashioned silliness.

The premise is simple but engaging: two dads mucking about, dreaming up the many things they (and we) might one day become. A ballerina? A monster? A dog? An All Black? The show takes us through these and more, with each idea sparking a new song, costume or cheeky gag.

Knowles and Parsons have excellent comic chemistry and a relaxed rapport with the audience. The live musical performance is a highlight — original songs are catchy, well-crafted and often hilarious, with subtle nods for adults tucked among the big beats for kids.

The production design is simple but effective, relying on props, costume bits and creative lighting to transform the small space. It never feels bare — instead, the minimalism allows the performers’ energy and inventiveness to shine. Audience interaction is encouraged throughout, with the crowd clapping, singing, and even shouting out suggestions (which the performers deftly fold into the action).

While clearly aimed at the under-10s, the show never talks down to its audience. Themes of friendship, creativity, and self-expression are gently woven through the fun. There’s a heartfelt moment or two, but nothing too heavy—just the right balance for a lively holiday outing.

Special mention must be made of the relaxed and accessible showings, including a ‘Jams & Prams’ performance and a fully ‘Unplugged’ version. It’s great to see family theatre being made not just for young people but also with their diverse needs in mind.

All The Things I Wish I Could Be is a joyful, proudly local production that hits the mark. Funny, fast-paced, and full of heart, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best thing you can be is exactly who you are—plus a little bit silly.

Luna Rama (aged 9)

All The Things I Wish I Could Be was really funny. They had a giant picture for their set which was really cool. I liked all of the songs it had. There was a biscuit with tomato sauce on it that one of the guys ate! I liked how the lights changed for what they were doing – when they sang Tomato Tamiti, it turned red for tomato sauce.  

In the middle of the show the ‘mum’ came in and said the moral of the show early. And then said “Oh no, and there’s 33 minutes left!” The moral was you can be anything you want to be, just be yourself.

At the end they were like, “Who is this guy in the mirror?” – haha. It’s really funny. If you like dad jokes, and good music you should go see this play.

Dev Rama (aged 6)

All The Things I Wish I Could Be was about being able to be anything you want to be. Tom and Jeff, they played songs – one was about someone who loved tomato sauce. After a few seconds later, Tom came out with a chocolate biscuit. He got out tomato sauce and he put it on the biscuit and then Jeff ate the biscuit, and it was gross! Tom’s ‘mum’ was in the play. She sang a song about what Tom will be when he’s older, with Tom.

When Tom was five years old, he wrote a list of things he could be. There was a lot! It was very funny.

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