Take Art present a new theatre commission for the under 5s

20 February 2013

In 2012, the Sprout commission to create and tour a new piece of Early Years theatre was awarded to Theatre Company Inspector Sands and their show Rock Pool, for 3-5 year olds.

Take Art, Farnham Maltings and Arts Partnership, Surrey set up the commission, aimed at creating a fresh and original show that would tour to new audiences across Surrey and Somerset. It was open to everyone, from individual artists, to new collaborators, through to established companies. 220 applications from UK and Europe vied for the award but only one was chosen.

Rock Pool is Inspector Sands’ first show for children. A sort of crustacean version of Waiting for Godot for children that will be touring Somerset Children’s Centres from the 4 to 7 March. 

When a big storm whips up the sea, two very different creatures are left stranded in an isolated rock pool, far from the open water. As their little pool starts to drain away, Prawn and Crab don’t have long to find a way of getting on and getting home. Funny, tender, exuberant, partially submerged theatre from award-winning company Inspector Sands. (Contains loud rock music and splashy dancing).

Quotes about Inspector Sands;

"They are brilliant and reckless, precise and inventive, intelligent and frank. They are kaleidoscopic creators. Don't miss them!" New York Theatre Guide

“A young company with big talent” The Times

Gina Westbrook, Early Years Director, Take Art, said; “Take Art is hugely excited about bringing Inspector Sands and Rock Pool into local Somerset Children’s Centres. With the power to inspire and engage young children and bring more creativity into family life, this show is bound to attract and delight new theatre-shy audiences.”

Gavin Stride, director, Farnham Maltings, said of the Sprout commissioning process; “We set out to find a group of artists who would bring something new to the table and we’re delighted that Inspector Sands have taken up this challenge. With over 200 proposals we have been astonished at the level of ambition and appetite within the theatre community to make work for the very young.”

Rock Pool Take Art Tour Dates - Spring 2013

  • Monday 4 March Princess Hall, Burnham on Sea, Somerset, 10.30am & 1.30pm
  • Tuesday 5 March St John and St Vigor School Hall, Radstock, Somerset, 11.00am & 2.00pm
  • Wednesday 6  March Sydenham Children’s Centre, Bridgwater, Somerset, 11.00am & 2.00pm
  • Thursday 7 March Minehead First School, Minehead, Somerset, 11.00am & 1.30pm

For more information please visit our What's On Pages.

Find out about Inspector Sands at www.inspectorsands.com

Note for Editor
Press contact: Louise Monk 01460 249450, louise@takeart.org