JACK AND THE DEVIL'S PURSE

Puppets tell an old Travellers tale about the value of money in a world turned upside down (video).

Jack lives alone with his poor old ma. Like most young lads his age he's just a little "too bad for heaven, but too good for hell." But mainly, he's just bored! Surely there must be more to life than this? Enter the Devil...

Join 'Old Nick' himself as he narrates how Jack got the better of him, in this darkly comic yarn, full of unforgettable characters and temptations behind every smiling face.

This is an adult-themed show, suitable for all children 11 years and above.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diTeVJYiXa8

THE TALE BEHIND THE TALE

My great-grandmother was Ellen Cahill, an Irish Traveller... says James Richardson.

When she married she lived around Mitchum Common, Surrey, with a Romany man by the name of Henry Richardson.

My father told me how my great-grandfather used to impress the young 'uns by taking a pint glass full of gold sovereigns and pouring them over the kitchen table, letting the kids scramble to gather them up.

Whilst wondering where all that 'Gypsy gold' went (neither my dad or I have seen head-nor-tail of it since) I was drawn to this old tale about wealth and trickery and of course, the Devil.

Performed by James Richardson and Dave Oliver. Live fiddle played by Lizzie Bennet.

Puppets and costumes by James Richardson and Lisa Green.

Directed by Sophie Sterckx and James Richardson.

  From an original story told by Duncan Williamson.

JACK AND THE DEVIL'S PURSE COMMENTS:

Brilliant performance. Wonderful live music. There were moments that were absolutely electrifying.

- Daniel at Skipton Puppet Festival, Skipton, North Yorkshire.

One of the most original pieces of theatre I've seen. Even though I know the tale I was so wrapped up in the performance it was like I was hearing it for the first time.

- Peter at Plymouth Barbican, Plymouth, Devon.

Not seen anything like it. The blend of story-telling and performance was wonderful. So much energy and humour in it.

- Lydia at Stainsby Folk Festival, Stainsby, Derbyshire.