A New Early Years Production Explores Life and Death for Children

South West theatre companies Light and Lark and Sixth Sense Theatre are joining forces to create a brand new production for children aged 3-6 years old.

Through the life of Papillon, a curious and cheeky young butterfly, audiences will be able to explore the journey of life through vibrant visuals, puppets, songs and animation.

Papillon has just been born and can’t wait to explore the world with his brand new wings. The show follows his adventures as he explores the garden through all the seasons, makes new friends and makes special memories along the way. Where will he go? What will he learn? How will he finally rest?

Performances are followed by a short ‘stay and play’ session with the actors in which children can meet the puppets and explore specially made sensory boxes. South West school children have helped to develop the show, alongside consultants on Special Educational Needs and Makaton.

Rehearsals begin in Swindon on Monday 22nd June and continue in Trowbridge from Monday 27 June until the production opens. The show has a short run in July before a full tour in autumn 2015.

The company of two actors are Clive Duncan, best known for his role as Mr Jolly on CBBC’s Playdays. Clive plays Papillon the butterfly, supported by fellow actor Emma Vickery.

Papillon is being supported and promoted by Trowbridge Arts for its premiere production at Trowbridge Town Hall. Tracy Sullivan, Director of Trowbridge Arts said: "Last year we held a number of performances for Early Years audiences and they will love Papillon from this exciting partnership."

Natalie Remington of Light and Lark commented, “Papillon addresses issues of life, friendship and memories in a vibrant and accessible way. As a new company we’re thrilled to partner the well-respected Sixth Sense.”

Mark Powell, Artistic Director, Sixth Sense added, “We had a great time touring a show for Early Years last year and are excited to work with a spectacular team of South West artists. This is a wonderful opportunity for children to see the region’s creativity at its finest.”

We will tour nationally to theatres as well as hospitals and hospices, with the therapeutic aim to help the children understand change and loss. There will also be an outreach programme of art and play therapy from professional practitioners."

Light and Lark were founded in January 2015 with a commitment to create high-calibre, vibrant and engaging multisensory theatre for children and young people, creating work which employs South West artists. 

Sixth Sense Theatre is Swindon's only professional theatre company and receives core funding from Arts Council England and Swindon Borough Council. The company creates touring productions for audiences aged 12 months and up. Sixth Sense also run Swindon Youth Theatre, working with 150 young people aged 5-25 years.

July Performances:  

• Trowbridge Town Hall - Friday 10 July at 10am & 2pm 01225 774306 www.trowbridgearts.com
• Rondo Theatre, Bath - Saturday 11 July at 2.30pm 01225 463362 www.rondotheatre.co.uk
• Swindon Libraries – w/c Monday 13 July TBC