Stories of 19th century adventures in the New World locked away for 100 years are the inspiration for a new children's show.
Mary English, at Norwich Puppet Theatre this Saturday, tells the tale of a trunk found in a dusty attic containing secrets and stories of battles lost and won, tall ships, trade routes, and a young girl left behind.
The show - full of puppetry, visual theatre and an original soundscore - is being presented by KinAesthetic Theatre Company and is based on the life of artistic director Molly Barrett's own great-great-great-great-grandmother, Mary English, who set sail for South America and became and adventurer and business woman in Colombia. Molly, who lives in Norwich, said knowledge of much of Mary's life was lost to her family until her letters - now preserved in the British Library - were uncovered in the 1950s and that her portrait now hangs in the National Portrait Gallery.
'I love the idea that everyone has these amazing family histories if you look back far enough, but you do not necessarily know about it because of the way things get lost or locked away,' said Molly, who is also working in the show with her brother Jesse.
'If you have children who are keen on asking questions and up for an adventure then come along to the show!'
The show is a work in progress. KinAesthetic has worked with Taverham Junior School to develop the production.
Mary English is at Norwich Puppet Theatre on Saturday at 2.30pm. The show is aimed at seven to 11-year-olds. Tickets £5 - visit www.nnfestival.org.uk or call 01603 766400.
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