An imaginative, spellbinding and surprising live theatre experience will return to Isle of Man primary schools this March, with support from the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and Isle of Man Arts Council.
Lempen Puppet Theatre Company, a husband and wife duo, will set sail to the Island for the first time since 2019 to perform at 12 local primary schools. They will stage Flotsam and Jetsam, a hopeful adventure story touching on the important issue of climate change, featuring two very different creatures that are washed up on the same island beach.
The Yorkshire-based theatre company, which brings its unique brand of original stories told with puppets to audiences across the British Isles and further afield, has been visiting the Island’s schools since 1994. The Steam Packet Company is once again offering its support by assisting with the cost of travel.
Liz Lempen from Lempen Puppet Theatre Company, said: ‘We are so excited to be bringing our new show to the Isle of Man after an extended break. We strive to be as inclusive and accessible as possible and with the pandemic, life has not been easy for many people. Therefore, with the continued support from the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and support from Isle of Man Arts Council to help with costs, we can reach out and visit even the smallest of schools. We’re really looking forward to showcasing the captivating experience of live puppet theatre to as many local young people as possible in March.’
Brian Thomson, Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Managing Director, said: ‘It’s a pleasure to help bring Lempen Puppet Theatre Company’s imaginative and educational performances to local young audiences once again. After two years of not being able to travel to the Isle of Man, we have no doubt children will really enjoy Flotsam and Jetsam being brought to life and look forward to welcoming the puppet theatre back to the Island.’
Flotsam and Jetsam will be performed at Bunscoill Ghaelgagh, Rushen Primary School, Cronk-y-Berry School, Sulby Primary School, Arbory School, Ballacottier Primary School, Scoill Vallajeelt, St Thomas’ C of E Primary School, Bunscoill Rhumsaa, Ballaugh School, Henry Bloom Noble School and Onchan Primary School.
