In a far away land to the East an Emperor believes he has everything!
Then he discovers a little nightingale living in the green wood, beside the deep, blue sea…

So begins Angel Heart Theatre's skilfully told tale about the perfection of Nature.
Based on Hans Christian Andersen's story we offer this special show for everyone over 4 years.
Magnificent puppets, beautiful storytelling, evocative shadow theatre and original live music.

The most beautiful song is the song of freedom.





Comments about 'The Nightingale':


Delightful show, beautiful music and singing, wonderful puppets- entertaining for all the family
and inpirational for the children. Thank you.
-The Young family

There were so many layers to it... so much that a parent and child can take home and talk about.
-Elin Berggren, teacher

Magical tale woven by the puppet masters.
-The Herald Express

This was my 'family' birthday treat-Thank you...Even my 13 year old son enjoyed it!
-Audience member, Salisbury Arts Centre

I thought Death was really cool!!
-Tom, aged 6

Thank you. I liked it. I cried a little at the end.
-Anna, aged 7

I don't think I've seen them all sitting so quietly!
-Teacher at The Topsham School

Thank you so much. It was just magic. Very healing and just what children can be nourished by.
-Audience member, Hawkesbury Upton Village Hall

A wise tale threaded with mischievous humour and wonderful puppetry. A pure gem of original theatre.
-Conrad Batten, artist




Technical information about the show:

Age range:
For all the family 4 years and over

Performance length:
45 minutes with no interval

Maximum audience:
120 public shows / 150 school shows

Performance area:
5.50 m wide / 4.40 m deep / 3 m high

Set up / Strike down time:
90 minutes / 60 minutes

Performers:
Two. No technician required

Technical requirements:
2 double sockets, 240 V

Black out:
Good blackout is essential for the performance

For bookings:
Please contact- james@angelhearttheatre.com


About the making of 'The Nightingale':

We use rod puppets in the show. Their heads, hands and feet were carved in limewood.
Each head took about two days to carve. Each puppet body took a week to complete.



They were given a fine finish to compliment the magnificent costumes by textile artist, Sue Field.
We use shadow theatre as a vital element, for both setting the mood and helping to tell the story.
The 6 scenes and their puppets were designed and patiently(!) cut out by visual artist, Jo White.



The song was specially composed for 'The Nightingale' by Sophie Greatorex.
As one of the performers she also plays enchanting bamboo flute during the show .