Penguin
Long Nose Puppets
How I wish I’d been lucky enough to see ‘Penguin’ as a child. Opening a present, adorable Ben discovers Penguin inside; he’s delighted – until he discovers Penguin won’t speak. Adapted from Polly Dunbar’s popular book, the show features gorgeously plush puppets and colourful projections, plus an original soundtrack by Tom Gray. The part where Ben fires Penguin into space to make him “say something” is a magical routine, featuring fluorescent aliens with dancing googly eyes and endlessly springy legs, and makes the children stare in awe. Although the lion’s appearance caused a few wails from younger kids, this is a sweet, smart show. You can even meet Ben and Penguin at the end – and I enjoyed it so much I stopped to natter.

tw rating 4/5

We are performing at the Pleasance Courtyard at 11.20 am, everyday, (except the 16th & 25th) until the end of August. Huzzah!

Come along and see us! You can book tickets here.

Penguin is suitable for ages 2-7.

(Not ages 0-1 as stated in the Fringe Guide.)

Photo-Our Blue Lion as seen in The Times!

Adapted from the award winning book by Polly Dunbar.

Ben is delighted when he rips open his present and finds a penguin inside. “Hello, Penguin!” says Ben. Penguin says nothing. What can Ben do to make Penguin speak? Follow the twists and turns of this wonderful tale, in which a silent Penguin turns marvelously eloquent and a little boy finally gets his heart’s desire.

‘Take an hour out to restore your faith in all that is good about being alive with Long Nose Puppets’ Penguin.’ The Argus

‘It’s a warm-hearted show, with some wonderful sharp edges that delight rather than scare. It’s done with impressive imagination, and the energetic music is a perfect companion to the narrative, the puppetry is of an excellent standard and there’s an inventiveness and imagination that has resulted in a gem of a show.’ Fringe Review

‘The dreamy, almost hypnotic quality of this show is reminiscent of 1970s children’s shows likeBagpuss, even down to the droll-voiced narrator, and the piece exudes a quiet confidence in its lo-fi magic that is both compelling and justified.’ Total Theatre

Click here!

Sit in our new giant shoe!

Gordon Brown asked the charity Booktrust to host his annual children’s Christmas party at number 11. Shoe Baby and Octopus joined in with the celebrations!

Shoe Baby has won the award for Best Children’s show of Brighton Festival! Hurray!