Bubble man top of the pops

If ever there was a song suited to an occupation, it's "I'm forever blowing bubbles" for Louis Pearl's job. The San Francisco children's entertainer has been blowing bubbles for more than three decades.

"When people used to tell me about that song, I'd say 'that's a pretty sweet old song, but these are Jimi Hendrix bubbles," he says.

True, his bubbles push boundaries. They're human-body huge, and eye-poppingly beautiful.

The Amazing Bubble Man was noticed internationally at the Edinburgh Fringe Festivals in 2007, and has sold out all performances at that festival in the years since. Now he fills out the occupation box on his airport arrival form as: Performing Artist - Bubbleologist. "I always felt that, because everyone loves bubbles, and no one has ever seen any bubbles like this, that people would love the show. Every bubble is fresh and unique and new. I never tire of making and seeing them."

There is science involved in blowing huge, strong bubbles.

"Humidity is the most important ingredient in my bubble solution," he explains. "The bubble wall is thin and is mostly water ... if the water dries out, there goes the bubble."

On top of that, "any slight breeze or draught can blow the whole show away".

His bubble solution is made with soap and water, a humectant (for water retention) and a stretching agent.

"It's the result of 30 years of tinkering. I have always said, 'In the bubble business, the problem is the solution'."

Despite all the entertainment gadgetry available, children still blow bubbles. "And pop them - it's good, clean fun."

But that doesn't mean the show is just for young children. "Most people think it's 3 and 4 year olds, but kids up to 12 love to get involved in the show. This is bubbles at a much higher level than most people imagine. Basically I can make a show that works for any and all ages.

"I have to be there and connect to the audience live ... then the magic happens."

That magic will happen for Kiwi children in a 75-minute show from July 11 to 15 at the Civic.

WHAT The Amazing Bubble Man

WHEN/WHERE Wed July 11 to Sun July 15, 11am and 2pm at The Civic.

HOW MUCH Child A reserve $29; B reserve $25. Adults $35/$39/$45. Phone 0800 BUY TICKETS or see buytickets.co.nz

WEB www.tangenttoy.com/bubbleman/

PROMO http://tinyurl.com/bubblevid

WIN TICKETS!

We have five double passes to the Amazing Bubble Man's Wednesday, July 11, 11am show. Email letters@theaucklander.co.nz and tell us why you should win. Entries must have a daytime delivery address and close midnight on Sunday.