Family Magic of Coppelia at the New Vic

The New Vic’s much-loved ‘Tale Trail’ is back this Christmas with an immersive accessible adventure based around the story of Coppelia created especially for 3 – 5 year-olds and their families.

Putting a festive spin on the theatre’s popular summer show Coppelia – A Mystery, the interactive performance Tale Trail to Coppelia is specifically written, directed and designed with the youngest audience members in mind.

The show will take preschoolers and their families on a magical journey to a toyshop like no other, owned by the mysterious Doctor Coppelius. Filled with love, mischief and curious secrets, families will follow storytelling actors Erica Flint and, reprising his role as Dr Coppelius, Michael Hugo, through different scenes to discover the surprises that lie in store behind the shop window.

Tale Trail is an accessible introduction to the magic of theatre, with toddlers helping to solve the mystery alongside enchanting characters, and integrated Makaton signing.

Director of Tale Trail to Coppelia, Caroline Wilkes, said: “I am thrilled to be directing Tale Trail to Coppelia. There is so much to see, touch, hear and smell: a feast for the senses as families join in with the actors to help tell the story all together. Following the success of Coppelia – A Mystery this summer, we decided that this magical world was too wondrous to leave behind!”

Head of Education Jill Rezzano said: “Tale Trail is the ideal first experience for children to enjoy theatre. Dr Coppelius’ toy shop is open to be explored and for children to interact with the characters and move with them through their fabulous story. We have created a sensory world, accessible for all and we are ready to welcome you in!”

Tale Trail to Coppelia will be performed in the Studio at the New Vic Theatre from Saturday 18 December 2021 to Saturday 15 January 2022. Visit newvictheatre.org.uk (Main image Andrew Billington.)