a cut out blue forest showing only tree trunks and barks with a yellow background. In the foreground is a bird made out of an old map, some glowing firelies and a dancer moving with one leg lifted. The dancer is wearing a mask made out of coconut matting and long raffia skirting covering their body

Return to the Forest

A co-production with Factory International, co-commissioned by Sadler's Wells

Our new collaboration with Gregory Maqoma premiering at Factory International in May (7-10) 2026 and then moving to Sadler’s Wells East (28-30) May

A magical forest comes alive through dance, puppetry and play.

Step inside a museum where precious treasures are on display. But remember – strictly no touching! Dusk falls and the museum is getting ready to close but something is beginning to stir. Only a few visitors remain. These precious objects seem to call to them, yearning to be freed… Is this a heist happening in front of your eyes? Can it really be a heist when the objects are leading the way?

This immersive experience is for a limited capacity of 300 audience members.

In our 30th anniversary year we are delighted to be collaborating once again with South African choreographer Gregory Maqoma, who we last worked with on The Global Playground for Manchester International Festival 2021.

Premiering at Factory International from 7 to 10 May, before transferring to Sadler’s Wells East for performances 28 to 30 May.

 

After the performances at Factory International and Sadler’s Wells East we will adapting Return to the Forest to be performed as a traditional theatre show at Blackpool Grand.

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Artwork Design by Émilie Chen
Photograph © Chris Nash

Cast

Creative Team

Sue Buckmaster

Director

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