Pinocchio returns to Jerwood Dancehouse


DanceEast are well known for their festive productions which bring families together and over the years have become a tradition for many. Whilst December 2020 saw the launch of two innovative digital projects – Solstice, a digital window installation and the Super Awesome Digital Disco – 2021’s programme welcomes audiences back into the Jerwood DanceHouse for Pinocchio by Jasmin Vardimon Company.

Based on the original book by Collodi and performed by Vardimon’s multi-talented dancers, Pinocchio will bring to life the famous marionette as he embarks on a fantastic journey to become a human boy. This performance will combine physical theatre, quirky characterisation, innovative technologies, text, and dance to examine the idea of what it means to be human. 

“This is a show of dazzling imagination. Vardimon offers us shadow-play, flying trapezes, light shows, see-sawing aerial acrobatics and break-dancing donkeys” – The Evening Standard, 2017

After Covid prevented DanceEast from inviting audiences into the Jerwood DanceHouse last year, it felt particularly important to bring back something extra special to celebrate the long-awaited return to the theatre. Pinocchio is a gem that first delighted in December 2016, receiving rave reviews from audiences both young and young-at-heart. This year, the run of performances has been extended with more opportunities to take in the magic of the classic fairy-tale from Wednesday 8th to Thursday 16th December

We have always been particularly proud of our offer here at DanceEast, we have established a tradition of bringing the very best in family friendly Dance to Suffolk.  It was therefore a huge disappointment that live performances were on hold last year and this has made us all the more determined to make this holiday period particularly special. Jasmin’s Vardimon’s Pinocchio is an absolute classic, outstanding cast, fantastic choreography and really great introduction to those people who may not have seen much contemporary dance before. This genuinely will be a very special treat! – Brendan Keaney, Artistic Director and Chief Executive, DanceEast

With insightful humour, engaging drama and an acute observation of behaviour, Pinocchio takes audiences on a wonderful journey of discovery through this timeless and beloved fable – examining what it truly means to be human.

PINOCCHIO | Jasmin Vardimon Company 

Wednesday 8th December – Thursday 16th December 2021

www.danceeast.co.uk