Northampton drama group lifts spirits with short puppet film about lockdown and inclusivity

A local drama group that usually performs puppet shows to live audiences has had to adapt to the current climate.

Theze Guyz Theatre Company based in Northampton released a new short film that is based around a lockdown story and has a strong theme of inclusivity, which the group practices itself.

'Fowl Language: Lockdown adventure of Lily and her three legged chicken friend' includes puppetry, local child actors and British sign language.

Since it was released last week, the film has received a ‘great response’ and many viewers have said it ‘lifted their spirits’.

Sarah Love, founder of the theatre company, said: “We were supposed to be putting on another puppet show this year but because of people not being allowed in theatres we won’t be able to do it.

“Theze Guyz has been doing a lot of online shows so we thought ‘what about doing one as a film?’”

Once they had the idea for the film, the script was written by Sarah and Professor Andrew Williams, who both also work at Northampton General Hospital.

Then the six child actors filmed themselves completing their lines at home and the puppetry was done all at the puppeteer's home too.

The group then had to make sure the voice overs matched up to the videos and edit the film.

Sarah added: “It was hard to do, but it has a feel good factor and it’s just a nice film for any age.

“We really did it to keep ourselves busy, but it’s great that we can still provide entertainment for an audience too.

“We’ve had a lovely response and it has really lifted people’s spirits, especially those people who are on their own and not doing anything.

“It’s a great link to other people and it has an important message that a disability shouldn’t stop you doing what you would like to do.

“The three-legged chicken can do everything that an ordinary chicken can do.”

The theatre company hosts children’s and adult’s groups and anyone is welcome.

Message from the editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the highest standards in the world. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive. We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you