Press Release
(images)
Click here to see a short promo of Strangefaces latest show The Last Resort

GOING TO THE LAST RESORT…
When a junior devil is in need of a holiday where does he go? Discover what comes to light as a remote village becomes The Last Resort. Strangeface Mask Theatre Company unveil their latest production at place on date at time.

The Last Resort is driven by an eclectic mix of live music ranging from folk with an east European flavour, to moments of classical intermixed with stranger more haunting sounds. In fact the set itself has musical qualities that characters play as part of the action.

You can have a closer look at this musical box for yourself. Part of Strangeface's unique style is to invite the audience, at the end of the show, to have a go with masks and puppets, or just have a chat.

Previously in county last year with The Outlaw Fulke Fitz Waryn, Strangeface’s new production is a darkly comic folk tale. Described as a vibrant mix of Spitting Image and The Brothers Grimm, The Last Resort uses mask, puppet and live music.

Strangeface's diverse influences include Terry Gilliam (Brazil), Tim Burton (Nightmare Before Christmas), Oliver Postgate (The Clangers) and Eastern European animation. Artistic Director and maker Russell Dean says, "I've always been in love with the strange worlds of animation and working with masks and puppets is in many ways like creating a live cartoon. Our audiences respond to our shows in the same way as they might to watching an episode of The Simpsons, enjoying the story on several levels for different reasons.

Tickets for The Last Resort are priced at £ and £ concessions. To book please call the box office on number or visit website

Ends    11th January 2008

For more information and interviews contact:
Bethan on 01732 354696 or email bethan@strangeface.co.uk

The Company
Strangeface creates original pieces of mask theatre and its distinctive style blends new writing with mask and puppet play. It acts as a resource for masks and puppets, runs workshops and produces Commedia dell'Arte and character mask sets to buy.

Brief Synopsis of production:
Strangeface presents a satire about greed, ambition and ultimately redemption in a style best described as Spitting Image meets The Brothers Grimm. A darkly comic folk tale told with masks, puppets and live music.

Far from here and now, a remote village is teetering on the edge of ruin. One day, however, a mysterious soldier thief appears in its midst with an astonishing fortune on his back and a disgruntled devil at his side. He lays an offer of salvation before the village elders, but at a terrible price. Will the village choose the last resort?

Recommended age
Please note this production is not recommended for children under 11.

Running Time
100 minutes plus interval and post performance informal conversation - have a closer look at the masks and puppets

Previous Press Reviews
“Russell Dean’s masks, modelled in various triumphant productions by Trestle Theatre Company, are incredible carvings. This piece features dynamic performances from the cast, all of whom take on multiple roles, saucy knavery and witty visual gags”
The List

“A wonderful combination of original comedy, puppetry and magnificent masks for a highly appreciative audience, including many teenagers who had enjoyed a Strangeface workshop earlier in the day”
Shropshire Star

“The masks are fantastic, the tale fascinating”
The Scotsman

Founded by Trestle Theatre Company mask maker Russell Dean, Strangeface tour to venues across the UK from our base in Kent. Since 2005 we have given more than 180 performances of Hell and High Water and The Outlaw Fulke Fitz Waryn in small and mid-scale arts centres, and for 20 rural touring schemes in village halls and community centres across the country. We have also created site-specific work and engaged more than 2000 young people in creating their own masks and mask performances.

Website Address:
www.strangeface.co.uk

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