SPLAT! Takes Centre Stage: A Colourful Journey Through Art and Play
- Comedy in Your Eye
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
Playful and vibrant, the upcoming production of SPLAT! promises to be a delightful experience for children aged 3 to 7 and their families. This unique, language-free physical comedy will embark on a UK tour from May to August 2025, visiting 25 locations across the country. Created in collaboration with award-winning deaf artist Brian Duffy, SPLAT! is designed to be accessible for all audiences, including those who are deaf or non-English speaking.
Key Takeaways
Target Audience: Children aged 3-7 and their adults.
Accessibility: No spoken language, making it suitable for diverse audiences.
Themes: Collaboration, creativity, and the history of art.
Duration: 55 minutes of engaging performance.
A Journey Through Art
SPLAT! unfolds in a vibrant artist’s studio where two contrasting characters—a neat, serious painter and a chaotic, mischievous one—must learn to collaborate. Their journey through artistic differences takes the audience on a whimsical exploration of art history, from ancient cave paintings to contemporary masterpieces.
The performance is rich in clowning, movement, and slapstick comedy, creating an interactive experience that encourages young audiences to engage with their own creativity. As the stage transforms from pristine to a riot of colour and mess, children are invited to explore the joyful chaos of artistic expression.
Themes of Collaboration and Creativity
The show embodies the philosophy of Pablo Picasso, who famously stated, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up." Through its wordless narrative, SPLAT! highlights the importance of play and creativity in child development.
The two main characters represent the duality of the brain: one side logical and ordered, the other free-spirited and unpredictable. This dynamic reflects the evolution of artistic movements, allowing children to learn about various styles, including:
Renaissance
Romanticism
Impressionism
Surrealism
Pop Art
Graffiti
The Importance of Play in Education
Developed in response to the global conversations about children’s education during the pandemic, SPLAT! champions the belief that alongside traditional learning, children require creative freedom and playful exploration. Research indicates that play is crucial for cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development, enhancing self-esteem and confidence.
Child mental health experts have emphasised the significance of play in social development, urging educational institutions to prioritise it over strict academic progress. As Dr Jenny Gibson from the University of Cambridge noted, play has a profound impact on children’s social skills and overall well-being.
Conclusion
SPLAT! is set to be a vibrant celebration of art and creativity, encouraging children to embrace their artistic instincts. With its engaging, accessible format, this production promises to be a highlight of the UK theatre scene in 2025, inviting families to join in the colourful chaos of creativity. Listings and ticket information will be available soon, ensuring that audiences can secure their place for this exciting theatrical adventure.
Sources
OfTheJackel Presents SPLAT!: A Colourful, Physical Comedy Embarks on UK Tour, Theatre Weekly.
