A spectacular dragon will hatch in Plymouth City Centre this summer, and grow to the size of a double-decker bus.
The Hatchling is a ground-breaking outdoor theatrical performance that will unfold over a weekend of events in August and reaches an extraordinary finale on The Hoe.
The beautiful visitor will hatch in the city, build herself a nest and then attempt to take to the skies in a bid for her freedom. Along the way, she’ll explore the city, and as she roams, will encounter a series of events from intimate interactions to city-wide performances, prepared especially for her majestic visit.
Created by Trigger, a leading design team specialising in puppetry, kites and immersive theatre, this world premiere is taking place over the weekend of August 15 and 16.
The Hatchling will bring together artists, community groups and city partners to create a public artwork and a cultural icon that will unite people from all walks of life.
The Hatchling, which is free to attend, will invite the public to take to the streets and accompany the dragon on her epic two-day journey. The performance has been created with 25 partners including The Queens Harbour Master, Plymouth University and Plymouth Argyle Football Club.
The project is a collaboration between a team of leading UK creatives including Mervyn Millar, part of the original creative team of the acclaimed stage production War Horse, and Carl Robertshaw, a designer who has created sets for the London 2012 Olympic Ceremonies, collaborated with artists including Ellie Goulding and Kylie, and is a five-time sport kite world champion.
Standing at over 6.5m tall, The Hatchling is the largest ever puppet to be solely human operated. It is constructed from super lightweight carbon fibre weighing less than a piece of hand luggage, allowing it to be operated by a team of 36 puppeteers working in rotation in groups of 15.
Designed in collaboration with a paleontologist, she will be the largest ever flying creature, surpassing the size of the prehistoric pterosaur on which she is based.
Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said:
“Plymouth has been the starting point for some of the world’s most historic journeys including those of The Mayflower, Darwin and Shackleton, and for thousands of emigrants setting off all over the world.
“The Hatchling will be another unique journey starting from the city this summer. It will be a world-class cultural event set against the beautiful backdrop of Plymouth Sound.”
The Hatchling has been made possible thanks to public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England and support from Plymouth City Council and Mayflower 400. It will be delivered in partnership with a range of event partners, alongside five academic research projects conducted by the Brigstow Institute at the University of Bristol.
