Intricate old-world marionettes, giant books and sign language combine in the critically acclaimed gothic theatre fairytale, The Grimstones - Hatched, which played at Judith Wright Centre in 2009.
The creator, a deaf circus performer turned puppeteer named Asphyxia, says The Grimstones was borne from her love of making things and is an "enchanting" fairytale that especially appeals to fans of stories like Harry Potter.
"Nothing in the world gives me greater pleasure than making things; I spent 18 months in my tiny loft studio fiddling with fabrics, stitching, painting, sculpting and building to create the set and each marionette for this show," Asphyxia said.
"If you're a fan of Harry Potter, Edward Scissorhands and The Addams Family, then you'll really enjoy The Grimstones, which I would describe as an enchanting fairytale for kids and adults alike," she said.
Reviewers have agreed with Asphyxia. "This is one of the most deliciously dark and touching shows you will see," said The Sunday Mail. Arts Hub called it "a must see".
One of the most deliciously dark and touching shows you will see.Hatched tells the story of the Grimstones family, including a girl who reads dreams, a baby boy with three legs, a mother who sews garments lined with joy, and a grandfather who heals people with his magical concoctions.
Nationally touring to rave reviews, The Grimstones celebrates the wonder of books, acceptance of difference, family love and the simple pleasures of life.
While touring the world as a circus performer, Asphyxia was inspired by a chance meeting with a master puppeteer in Guatemala to turn her hand to marionette-making.
Asphyxia says she is passionate about introducing Australian audiences to the world of marionettes, and at the same time aims to educate hearing audiences about deaf culture and lifestyle.
"I am passionate about sharing my love of marionettes, particularly with Australian audiences because, although puppetry is becoming more popular in Australia, marionettes are rarely used here," she said.
"My craft also allows me to create work that teaches and reflects deaf culture through the use of strong visual motifs and sign language."
Free Auslan sign language workshops with Asphyxia will be offered to every patron who books to see The Grimstones.
The Grimstones - Hatched played at the Judith Wright Centre from Tuesday 21 to Saturday 25 July 2009.
This is a beautiful show. Gentle and quirky, it's full of surprises.
Asphyxia is amazing. She made the marionettes and the beautiful suitcase fantasy worlds and she manoeuvres the marionettes so subtly, you'd swear they were breathing. She uses Auslan to tell the story and her hands are amazingly expressive. Her fellow puppeteer and interpreter is also lovely.
See it if you have the chance.