THE fifth weekend in a series of six for Skipton Puppet Festival 2021 activities is coming up Saturday, October 9 and 10 and unlike previous weekends over the summer there will be no outdoor acts as autumn advances.

The weekend starts with Opposable Thumb Theatre presenting Coulrophobia at Skipton Town Hall on Saturday 9th at 8pm.

“This is a ridiculously brilliant show, not to be missed in Skipton,” said Liz Lempen.

Dik and Adam are clowns. They couldn’t fight

their way out of a paper bag, let alone a surreal cardboard world. Why are they there and what are they supposed to be doing? They know something sinister is afoot (wearing really big shoes…) and they need to get out before it’s too late. Join them on a ridiculous, anarchic, often hysterical and sometimes terrifying quest for freedom.

An 80-minute show featuring slapstick, mime, puppetry and a lot of cardboard. Contains disappointing nudity and some language better suited to those aged 14+.

Coulrophobia is a high energy, anarchic, roller coaster of a clown / puppet show that has been performed throughout the UK and Europe. It is a co-production funded by Nordland Visual Theatre, Norway and the Arts Council of England.

On Sunday at 11am and 2pm Indefinite Articles Theatre will present Pinocchio for a family audience.

Steve Tiplady, as Geppetto, uses the objects of a carpenter’s workshop to tell the tale of the puppet that wants to be a real boy, and the puppet-maker who wants to be a real father.

Pinocchio is carved on stage, brushes become a fox and the shadow of two saws transforms into a giant shark. An element of improvisation makes each performance unique to its audience.

Puppetry, shadows, illusion and especially composed music combine to create a show with something for all ages.

The festival is supported by a grant from the national Lottery through Arts Council England and by Skipton BID

More information and ticket links can be found at www.skiptonpuppetfestival.co.uk