Animal Migration: Congo to Arctic Marathon
- A unique artistic endeavor is making its way across Europe, using large-scale puppets to highlight the urgent issue of climate change.
- In each city, up to 100 participants undergo a week of training to animate the puppets.
- Volunteers work in teams to maneuver the larger puppets, such as the towering kudu.
Witness “The herds” puppet project, a powerful artistic statement tackling climate change, now captivating audiences in London and Manchester. This project uses striking large-scale animal puppets,brought to life by dedicated volunteers and local artists,to spotlight environmental concerns. Over 100 participants receive training to animate these impressive figures,and the project,with its diverse cast of young artists,emphasizes community involvement. The impact extends beyond the spectacle, sparking vital conversations about our planet’s future. News Directory 3 is proud to share this moving story of art and activism. From aerial performances to the addition of new puppet creations, each show offers a fresh perspective on environmental challenges. Discover what’s next for this innovative traveling production.
‘The Herds’ Puppet Project Raises Climate Change Awareness
Updated June 24, 2025
A unique artistic endeavor is making its way across Europe, using large-scale puppets to highlight the urgent issue of climate change. “The herds” project, featuring animal puppets crafted from recyclable materials, involves local producers and volunteer performers at each stop. Unlike some puppet shows that rely on professional animators,”The Herds” depends heavily on community participation.
In each city, up to 100 participants undergo a week of training to animate the puppets. The animals, ranging from vervet monkeys to gorillas and zebras, are brought to life by volunteers working under the guidance of the South African puppet-building collective Ukwanda. Puppet designer Siphokazi Mpofu emphasizes the importance of breathing and natural movement in puppetry,ensuring the animals appear realistic.
Volunteers work in teams to maneuver the larger puppets, such as the towering kudu. The work is physically demanding, requiring participants to hold and manipulate the heavy structures. Puppetry director Craig Leo notes the human effort required to present these fragile creatures to the world.
The team treats damaged puppets with utmost care, referring to repairs as “hospital” visits. Technical director Muaz AlJubeh emphasizes that each puppet is treated as if it were alive. As “the Herds” travels, new animals are added through puppet-making workshops. The production aims to include 100 puppets by the time it reaches the United Kingdom, were it will appear in London and at the Manchester International Festival.
the troupe includes 42 young artists from 19 countries, known as E-Co (Emerging Company), who help coordinate the production and teach participants. Ochai Ogaba, a Nigerian choreographer, said the project has heightened his awareness of climate change and his obligation to protect the habitat.
Performances often incorporate local artists.In Arles, France, the puppets performed alongside aerial artists Gratte Ciel, with pyrotechnics and dry ice adding to the spectacle. The performances aim to create a sense of unease, highlighting the wrongness of confining wild animals in urban environments.