The magic of Nessie swims into local schools

Sharing our extraordinary live experiences with as many of our community as possible, in ways that are enjoyable and meaningful, is really important to us here at Capital Theatres.

Ahead of our world premiere of Nessie on Friday 28th March, our Creative Engagement team has been working with local schools on some fascinating puppetry workshops. 

Across March, pupils from Royal Mile and Prestonfield Primary schools have been busy preparing for their visit to see the show. The classes have enjoyed 3 weekly workshops, led by artist Lisa Wilson.

First up? A deep dive into the environmental themes of the show. In lively debates, the pupils were able to consider different perspectives around renewable energy and the impact we can make on the world around us.  Then it was time to get crafty with a session on design. Each child constructed their own monster puppet, inspired by Scottish landscapes. Finally, it was time to bring their beasties to life, with a session on puppeteering! 

Just like Nessa, each puppet has its own important message to share with the world.

For many of the children, this will be their first time in a theatre:  
“I haven’t been to a theatre before and I can’t wait for the monsters to be real”. 

And there is great excitement about being one of the first to see this brand new show:  
“I can't believe we're going to be the very first school to see this show!” 

So much fun was had creating their own puppets:  
“It’s been a magical experience making our puppets with you!” 
“I didn’t know I could make something like this.  My puppet makes me laugh.  I can’t stop giggling at him!” 

Nessie is a captivating new Scottish musical is co-produced with Pitlochry Festival Theatre and created through the innovative Musicals Commissioning Hub.

With book, music, and lyrics by Glasgow-based composer and musical director Shonagh Murray, Nessie celebrates bravery, the strength of friendship and the courage to follow your heart and will appeal to audiences of all ages. 

We are looking forward to seeing the magical puppets in an exhibition in the Studio and at Pitlochry Festival Theatre and to welcoming the children to a performance of Nessie.  

For more information on our Creative Engagement work, have a look here.