Doctor Dolittle's Wild Adventure

This year, we’re unleashing our wild side. 

Seeking inspiration from Hugh Lofting’s iconic doctor as well as some familiar animal friends, I have aimed to create a show that embraces the beauty and wonder of nature alongside the fun and warmth of Odyssey. 

As always, the writing process was made easy by the wealth of ideas put forward by the group in our Monday night sessions. From a pair of hippy honeybees to the squirrel with a big nut, there was no end to the creativity and imagination on display. 

Now into my third show with Odyssey, I have come to deeply understand the importance of this group. I have been inspired by moments of bravery and brilliance. I have witnessed the value of inclusivity and of giving everyone a voice. I have experienced genuine kindness and a sense of belonging. And I have laughed. Oh, how we laugh! There is nothing more joyful than time spent with this brilliant group of people. 

I recently came across a quote by David Attenborough that describes the natural world as “important, valuable, beautiful, wonderful, an amazement and a pleasure.”  

I think the same could be said about Odyssey. 

Telemachus are super excited to be back on stage with Odyssey this year for Doctor Dolittle’s Wild Adventure! We have been working on creating our pre-show, to protest the evil Stanley Stubbins who plans to build a hotel in the heart of the forest. Please join us in our chants; are you a nature lover who wants to save the animals’ homes, or can you not say no to a Piña Colada cocktail? We have also been working with the USW Creative and Theraputic Arts students to design some wonderful bug and bird puppets, which the students have brought to life – keep an eye out for them in the show. Diolch, USW! I have recently become Director of Telemachus and it’s been a privilege to work with such a wonderful bunch of young people, who are so passionate about what they do. Joining Team Telem has been an absolute joy; it’s been a dream getting to know them all. We’ve all had so much fun working towards this production, we hope you enjoy the show!

Our annual fundraiser and celebration of all things PAWB is back again this year. Keep an eye on our social media channels for lots of exciting content from our PAWB groups in the build up to Christmas. This year, we are hoping to raise £1,200 – and we need your help. PAWB provides creative opportunities for anyone who wants to perform, regardless of ability or experience. Each week we run 5 groups: Odyssey, Telemachus, North Young People’s Theatre, Drama Foundations 1 & 2, and Vaguely Artistic, our in-house band. These groups provide much joy and support for their participants, and flourish thanks to grants and donations from our generous supporters.

Text PAWB followed by your donation amount (e.g. to donate £3 text PAWB3) to 70490 to give that amount. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.

Help to support Hijinx PAWB by buying our Christmas cards. This year there are four designs to choose from, as well as designs from previous years. For just £5 for a pack of eight (of your choice) it’s a great way to help Hijinx PAWB continue providing creative opportunities for anyone who wants to perform.