Gulbenkian

Description

Based on the story by Carlo Collodi, award winning Strangeface (A Rake’s Progress, A Christmas Carol) bring an extraordinary mix of masks, puppets live music and song to this tale of wild mischief and temptation.

In a style closer to Roald Dahl than Disney, the Amazing Adventures of Pinocchio takes us on a fantastical journey from his first moments as a talking log through a madcap series of scrapes and escapades with the nefarious rascals Fox and Cat, a sinister puppet master, fairies, a terrible dogfish and a trip to the Land of Toys.

The production isn’t solely aimed at young people, Russell Dean explains “there is a preconception here that mask and puppet theatre is for children. While we know from audiences that children as young as 3 and 4 have been “enthralled” we make our productions to be layered so that groups of adults should enjoy them equally – though perhaps for different reasons! This version of the story goes back to the original series of episodes from the Italian author so you might be surprised by some of the differences between the characters created by Collodi and those from the iconic Disney film.” 

The mastery of character creation Strangeface employs in producing exceptional mask and puppet theatre, which appeals to both children and adults, has always been present and is what now makes them one of the leading UK mask theatre companies. The half masks are designed and made by Artistic Director, Russell Dean. He has, with his two brothers director Ashley and composer Mark Dean, created a unique style combining inspiration drawn from Tim Burton, the Commedia dell’Arte tradition with new writing. Having worked as a designer and mask-maker for Trestle Theatre in the early days, Russell has since built up a reputation as an expert, creating masks for the new live show of Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom, theatre companies such as Vamos and TV shows including the Brit Awards. 

Tickets: £6