Storytelling and Puppetry & Theatrical Workshops
The Little Matchstick Girl
A powerful adaptation which brings to life the harsh realities faced by many children during the Dickensian era—before the protections of the Children’s Act.
Told through storytelling and puppetry and set at Christmas time, the story follows a young girl as she endures neglect, poverty and loss, ultimately finding peace beyond this life,—reflecting the true spirit of the Christmas season. The story (told in an accessible way through storytelling and puppetry) offers teachers an opportunity to open difficult conversations. The story crosses the curriculum and gives its audience a deeper understanding of the social, religious and personal issues of the time through a historical context Key stages 1&2
Accompanied by The Charlie Chaplin Workshop is available for those learners wishing to express themselves through physical theatre, the workshop gives participants the skill in mime, movement and physical theatre to become a real life silent movie star
Sickness in Southsea! A poignant retelling of Florence Nightingale’s story. It follows her journey from the Crimean war all the way to Eastney Pump Station in Portsmouth, where a local child is suddenly taken ill! Can you help Miss Nightingale work out why there are poo problems in Portsmouth?
PSHE, Hygiene and basic first aid are explored through historic characters and an imaginary trip to Pompey – (Key Stages 1&2)
Accompanied by a 1-Hour Physical Theatre Workshop:
Students will perform a short piece of theatre inspired by the style of the Victorian stage. Through this session, we will explore Victorian Theatres, including our own Kings Theatre and New Theatre Royal and explore the types of stage shows popular at this time, from animal acts to chorus dances routines
Springy Tales – The Ugly Ducklingis a timeless tale that follows a young bird who is rejected and ridiculed for being different. Isolated and lonely, he endures a harsh winter on his own. With the arrival of spring, he discovers his true identity — he has transformed into a beautiful swan. As well as themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and personal growth, the puppetry and storytelling explore the changes of seasons and the different roles of animals and their behaviour including nesting, migration and hibernation. Key stage 1 – this is aimed at younger pupils, is 30 mins and has audience participation.
In our workshop, we explore the theme of transformation with The Little Mermaid. Both stories invite us to reflect on change, growth, and the journey toward self-acceptance. Through creative movement, we will bring these ideas to life, exploring how the body moves differently in water and air.
The Emo Elf – A Modern Retelling of The Elves and the Shoemaker
The Emo Elf offers a playful and heartwarming modern-day reimagining of the classic tale The Elves and the Shoemaker. Set in present-day Southsea, the story follows Bessie and Harold, a kind-hearted couple struggling to keep their small shoe shop afloat. Just when things seem hopeless, a pair of glittery, magical shoes sends their lives into unexpected chaos — and viral fame — all thanks to an unlikely hero: a moody, music-loving emo elf! A fun story, lots of laughs, accessible puppets
Followed by our “Spells and serenity workshop. We explore theatrical vocal expression – creating characters and magical atmospheres and spells through ensemble vocal work and puppetry
The Tatty SlippersIn this magical retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses, twelve princesses wake each morning to find their slippers mysteriously worn out. After a series of suitors fail to find out why, a clever soldier, armed with an invisible umbrella, uncovers their secret — a hidden underground world where they dance with enchanted princes.
30 mins of Engaging storytelling, interactive songs, and fun accessible puppetry, The Tatty Slippers is a delightful moral tale about curiosity, courage, and discovery. (Key Stage 1 & 2)
In the accompanying workshop, pupils explore the story through improvisation and physical theatre, devising and performing their own scene — from the princesses’ secret escape from the palace to the magic of the underground ballroom, this creative session encourages imagination, teamwork, and expressive storytelling. (Key Stage 1 & 2)
