A sea giant is set to invade Swindon town centre.

The 4m tall puppet's visit will be part of a large-scale outdoor performance called Out of the Deep Blue is being brought to Swindon by inSwindon BID Co and the Wyvern Theatre as part of Ocean's Awareness Week to raise awareness of the climate crisis.  

The show features the giant, operated by five puppeteers, and a contemporary dancer who aim to tell a moving tale and spread an important message through dance, movement and masterful puppeteering.

Created by Autin Dance Theatre, the physical theatre performance is designed specifically for family and festival audiences and tells the magical story of Eko, a sea giant who rises from the deep ocean and who encounters, on the shore, a courageous little girl called Violet – a story about the power of empathy and collaboration between these two beings - an ancient creature, a dispirited teen.

Swindon Advertiser:

Laura James, the theatre director for Wyvern Theatre, says, "We are thrilled to be partnering with InSwindon BID on this project and are hugely grateful for their support, allowing us to bring the fantastic Out Of The Deep Blue right to the heart of Swindon.

"This will be a completely unique spectacle and something that families and individuals in our community can engage with and enjoy free of charge and without having to travel out of town. It’s a real opportunity to experience live theatre on your doorstep!"

Anita Bellinger, inSwindon BID director, added:  “It is wonderful to work in partnership with our ever-inspiring Wyvern Theatre to bring accessible, live theatre to the heart of the Town Centre.

"Not only will this be an amazingly vibrant festival experience for the community to enjoy, free of charge, but it raises awareness of the very important issue of the climate crisis. Particularly relevant locally now that the Council have passed the much-needed climate emergency motion.”

Swindon Advertiser:

Three two-part performances will take place throughout the day on July 31, starting at 11.30am, 2pm and 4pm.

It will begin at Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square, where Eko the Sea Giant will make his way along Regent Street and Canal Walk, interacting with the environment and his audience as he heads to Wharf Green for his 25-minute dance theatre duet.

Alongside the performances, there will be craft activities at the crossroads, by the fountain provided by Prime Theatre and Artsite for all the family using recycled materials to make your own monster.