A trip to the museum becomes an unexpected adventure in a new immersive family show titled Return to the Forest, created by Theatre-Rites and Factory International. The production focuses on a number of precious objects that long to be freed from the museum where they are displayed. These objects include an Ishoba (a South African ceremonial stick), an ancient map, and a carved mask.
Creative Vision and Collaboration
The show’s South African choreographer, Gregory Maqoma, explains that it “opens a space for audiences to engage not only with culture, but with heritage and the deeper question of what still matters in the world.” Return to the Forest is directed by Sue Buckmaster, who runs Theatre-Rites, a company that has created puppet-powered work for families for 30 years. Theatre-Rites and Maqoma previously collaborated on The Global Playground at the Manchester International Festival.
Performance Style and Audience Experience
Return to the Forest is a promenade performance that keeps audiences on the move, following the journey of the escaping objects. Buckmaster says the show offers “a precious moment to ponder on and celebrate the importance of the interdependence of nature and human nature.” She describes combining “contemporary masquerade and puppet figure concepts with exquisite dancers.” Maqoma calls it “a shared journey into the forest to discover, renew and learn.”
Cast and Production Details
The cast includes Natnael Dawit, Xolisile Bongwana, and Teele Uustani (puppeteer-performer), among others. The show features stunning costumes and puppetry, with members of the company making adjustments to their costumes for the performances.
Venues and Dates
Return to the Forest runs at Factory International’s Aviva Studios in Manchester from 7 to 10 May. It was co-commissioned by Sadler’s Wells and will also be performed at the new Sadler’s Wells East venue in London from 28 to 30 May.
