Hopeful Monster is an innovative collaboration between three puppeteer-makers (Ella Mackay, Eti Meacock and Bori Mező) who hail from Scotland, England and Hungary respectively. Named after the biological theory that dramatic genetic mutations can create radically new organisms, the trio aim to push the boundaries of puppetry with their own weird and wonderful creations. And from Hopeful Monster emerges Hopeful Monsters, their debut show which explores this eponymous phenomenon.
A piece of table-top theatre performed almost entirely with hands, Hopeful Monsters is a masterpiece of visual storytelling. Digits emerge from the darkness, transforming themselves into an increasingly complex series of creatures which plunge into oceans, soar across skies and sprint across the savannah before retreating back into the abyss. Striking in its simplicity, it’s incredibly impressive to watch the most natural of human tools create something quite remarkable. There is a balletic quality to the movement of the performers (Ella Mackay, Bori Mező and Emily Dyble), who demonstrate the classic swan effect of making very hard work look almost effortless, their bodies intertwining seamlessly in the darkness as their hands dance in the glow of Topher Dagg’s ethereal lighting (originally developed with Sarah Wright).
The effect is completed by a beautiful original soundtrack from Michael Hyland, which is pivotal in transporting the audience out of the auditorium and on a journey through time and place. As an entirely non-verbal production, it transcends language completely, making it extremely accessible. Far from just a puppet show for children, this is an experience that can – and should – be shared by audiences of all ages. (This was a rare review outing featuring both munchkins – The moody teen accepted that it was impressive while the cynical tween with a particular pickiness when it comes to puppetry unilaterally declared that she liked it!)
Unsurprisingly for a work with such universal appeal, the production has toured extensively across Europe before returning for a third run at the small but mighty Well Walk Theatre, where it fits like a glove. It’s clear that so much care is put into everything at this lovely little venue, from the gorgeous little bookshop and cafe (complete with bona fide French chef) to the exquisite auditorium.
So much of modern media is made to be consumed individually, via a handheld screen, that there are real concerns about the evolutionary impact of technology, particularly when it comes to attention spans. With that in mind, some might even argue that to experience the refreshingly disruptive Hopeful Monsters is a biological imperative. They’ll certainly have you eating out of the palms of their very talented hands.
Hopeful Monsters played at the Well Walk Theatre from 14 to 22 February 2026. We received complimentary press tickets to the 3pm performance on 19 February.
Hop over to our friends at Everything Theatre to read their interview with Hopeful Monster.