The Lost Sound said: “We have been working on original music for The Hatchling for the last two months. It is a challenging piece and we want to rise to that challenge – to sing a lullaby of hope, of compassion, and for freedom. This piece has never been more apt for the time and it feels important to be able to sing it for Plymouth. 

“The Hatchling has enabled our different communities to come together to create, which is a powerful metaphor and, although we can’t all be at this new date, our choir will make an appearance to sing, to show respect, to hope we can build a better future for our city. Projects like The Hatchling build communities across divides and we get to be a part of something so much bigger than ourselves. We are very proud to be part of this event.” 

Angie Bual, Artistic Director of Trigger, said: “From the messages we have received since the postponement, it’s clear that there is a desire to come together in a moment of unity as a community. We hope The Hatchling will be a chance for the city to share something positive.” 

Charles Hackett, Chief Executive of Mayflower 400, said: “The Hatchling will bring something thoughtful and beautiful to our city, bringing people together at a time when we really need it. We are incredibly grateful to Arts Council England and to Plymouth City Council for their rapid and vital support to enable Trigger to reschedule this event, which they and many partners have been working on for years as part of the Mayflower 400 cultural programme.” 

The rescheduled event has only been made possible thanks to Arts Council England’s support. Page 1 of 3

Darren Henley, Chief Executive Officer, Arts Council England, said: “Over the last few years, we have witnessed the time, effort and passion that has been expended by the production team, the performers, and the city’s community groups in the development of The Hatchling, and we are proud to be able to support Trigger and Plymouth City Council in rescheduling this extraordinary event for the bank holiday weekend. 

“At Arts Council England, we believe in the power of creativity and culture to transform people’s lives: to delight us, to give comfort, and to bring communities together. Following the tragic events that unfolded in Keyham last week, the decision to postpone the staging of The Hatchling was undoubtedly the right one, but we echo Trigger’s and Plymouth City Council’s belief that this uplifting event will go some way towards helping to unite the people of Plymouth in a moment of solidarity and hope.” 

Where and when can I see her?

The Hatchling performance takes place throughout the weekend, so as long as you visit during the times outlined below, there’s something to see! The incredible puppet will be roaming the streets and at certain points will be joined by community groups from Plymouth for special moments.

We’re encouraging everyone to dip in and out throughout the weekend – come along at a time that suits you to see some of the performance, then enjoy everything that Plymouth has to offer, whether that’s a spot of shopping, a bite to eat or a visit to one of our great attractions.

On Saturday 28 August, she will hatch in Plymouth city centre and explore the streets between midday and 7pm, when she falls asleep again (top tip: we’ve heard she’s a light sleeper, and will need lulling back to sleep with a gentle lullaby from around 9.30pm). Look out for her on Armada Way (between Place de Brest and Royal Parade), Cornwall Street and New George Street – she’ll be hard to miss!

On Sunday 29 August, The Hatchling will wake from her slumber at about midday after a lovely lie-in, and spend the day moving from the city centre to Plymouth Hoe, where she’ll remain from early evening. Look out for her on Armada Way, Royal Parade and the Hoe Promenade.

The weekend culminates in her spectacular flight over Plymouth Sound, which will be best viewed from the Hoe. This takes place on the Sunday evening and if you’d like to watch we’d advise you plan to be there between 8pm and 10pm. There will be food and drink stalls on the Hoe to enjoy while you’re there, as well as extra toilets.

If on either day you can’t find The Hatchling, or you’re looking for more details, head to the information point on the Piazza.

Can we interact with The Hatchling?

As she moves around Plymouth, The Hatchling will be reacting to the people she meets, the places she sees – even the sounds and noises around her – so you’ll be able to watch this happening.

However, the puppet itself is very sensitive so please don’t touch her, as we want to avoid any accidental damage.

Travel information

If you’re travelling by public transport, a bus to Royal Parade is probably the best bet – as wherever The Hatchling is wandering, she’ll be easy to find from this point. Plymouth also has three Park & Ride services that will take you directly into the city centre. Find out more about travelling around Plymouth here.

If you’re coming by car, then there are 19 car parks in and around the city centre to choose from.

And if you’re visiting by train, then you can simply walk down Armada Way from North Cross Roundabout when you arrive – keep your eyes peeled and you’ll be sure to spot The Hatchling sooner or later!

There will also be a number of road closures in place on Sunday 29 August:

• Royal Parade (west bound) from 11.45am to 2pm (please note, this will affect some bus routes).
• Princess Street from 1.45pm to 3.45pm
• Notte Street from 3.30pm to 4pm and 8.30pm to 10pm
• Windsor Place and Armada Way loop (Crowne Plaza) from 4pm to 5.30pm and 8.30pm to 10pm
• Citadel Road (from junction with Lockyer Street to junction with Hoe Approach) from 4pm to 5.30pm and 8.30pm to 10pm
• Hoe Road (from the roundabout at Madeira Road to the junction with Pier Street) from 5pm to 10.30pm

Who created The Hatchling?

The Hatchling has been conceived by Angie Bual, Artistic Director of Trigger, Bristol-based producers of extraordinary theatrical projects. It has been brought to life in collaboration with a team of leading creatives including Mervyn Millar, part of the original creative team of the acclaimed stage production War Horse, and Carl Robertshaw, a designer who has created sets for the London 2012 Olympic Ceremonies.

The project is part of Plymouth’s Mayflower 400 commemorations.

Want to know more? Check out the full list of FAQs.

We’d love to see your photos of the performance too, so please remember to tag @VisitPlymouth and @HatchlingUK or use #TheHatchling on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!