OperaUpClose and Half Moon are set to present Flotsam, a new family opera based on David Wiesner’s best-selling picture book, touring venues across England from 24 October to 15 November.
Adapted from Wiesner’s award-winning story, Flotsam follows young Pip, who discovers a mysterious camera washed up on a beach. Inside are photographs revealing a chain of children connected across time and place, alongside strange and magical sea creatures that spark questions, adventures and new possibilities.
Created for children aged 2 to 5, the production combines music, movement and storytelling to celebrate imagination, curiosity and connection. Through the discovery of the camera and its extraordinary images, Pip is encouraged to explore the world beyond their own and find the confidence to make new friends.
The new opera features a book by David Wiesner, with music and words by four-time British Composer Award winner Kerry Andrew, and is directed by OperaUpClose Artistic Director Flora McIntosh.
Developed in collaboration with reception and Year 1 pupils on the Isle of Wight in partnership with Southampton and IOW Music, the production will visit eleven venues nationwide, beginning at Mayflower Studios in Southampton.
Flora McIntosh said, “Flotsam has a timeless quality and we realised there was a real opportunity to animate this beautiful story with words and music. This is work made with and for very young people, and for many, this may be their first experience of opera – we wanted to make sure it’s one that stays with them’’
The creative team includes designer Nikki Charlesworth, lighting designer Claire Childs, costume designer Robin Simon and Makaton specialist Helen Brew.
The cast features Susie Buckle as Pip, Gabriella Liandu, Meera Maharaj, Phil Wilcox and Benjamin Saffir.
OperaUpClose has built a reputation for creating accessible and imaginative opera experiences for audiences across the UK. Since joining Arts Council England’s National Portfolio in 2023, the company has continued to expand its reach through national touring productions and new family-focused work.
Half Moon, one of the UK’s leading venues and touring companies for young audiences, co-presents the production. Based in East London, the organisation reaches around 50,000 people annually through professional productions, touring work and creative learning opportunities.
Running for 30 minutes with no interval, Flotsam is designed specifically for children aged 2 to 5 and their families.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
