Illustration by Rachael Horner
Be part of something spectacular - a community puppetry parade in the centre of Newcastle! Get creative, learn new skills and meet new friends. Wor Seahorse Spectacle will shine a bright and colourful light on Newcastle’s maritime heritage, Roman mythology and Geordie pride. The project will explore and celebrate the historic links between Newcastle and the charismatic sea creature; the seahorse.
GET INVOLVED!
We are looking for North East participants of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to work alongside our team of professional puppet artists. Through a series of friendly workshops, everyone involved will have the chance to make and perform with puppets, costumes and masks as part of a colourful parade to open the festival. No prior experience in puppet making or performance is necessary.
Workshops are free, and will take part throughout January, February, March and April 2023. The parade through Newcastle City Centre will take place on Saturday 8th April 2023. We are looking for individuals as well as community groups and organisations to get involved. Travel, food and access support can be provided.
Participants will learn about their local heritage, develop skills and improve their wellbeing through participation in creative activity. A series of workshops led by a heritage professional and 5 leading puppet artists will culminate in the creation of large scale seahorse puppets and of the River God Tyne. Joined by local musicians, participants will perform in a colourful, celebratory parade in Newcastle City Centre.
A huge thank you to Heritage Lottery, The D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust and The Joicey Trust for allowing this project to happen.
