FroeFroe Theatre and the magic of puppet play

Froe Froe Theatre proves that puppet play is not only a joy to the little ones, certainly not. These 2 brothers from Antwerp (Jan and Marc Maillard) have done so many creative things already, that will definitely influence their puppet play so that even grown ups will enjoy their show. Choreography, scenography, techniques and sculptures. Does that really differ from puppets and masks? While making the puppets they make sure to work with clockwork precision. 'We certainly do magnify some specific characteristics but at the same we want to keep the beauty of the puppet in mind.'

They started with puppet play for grown ups, putting in a lot of technique. They really coloured the theatre with their lively show. Later on they started to create puppet play for a younger public, but still, influences of all their previous experiences can be found back in their current shows. Adults accompanying their kids do not have to be afraid to be bored! “It's very interesting to make shows for children without being infantile. But you can make beautfiful things that will appeal to both children and adults”. Their merry-go-round for instance is a good example of this mixture: the design based on paintings of the famous Jeroen Bosch; paintings with a more or less immodest character. Not suitable for kids you should think? Have a look then and be convinced of the opposite. To the Maillard brothers and their company puppet play is a very serious business. Designing the puppets, the interaction between human being of flesh and blood and his player of paper mache – of whatever material used – creating the show, nothing is left to chance, although you might think otherwise.