Flotsam

A new opera for young children

Based on the picture book by David Wiesner.

David Wiesner’s magical picture book was adapted and brought to life in words and music by award-winning composer and writer Kerry Andrew.

Pip likes to play alone. In their bedroom, they explore a collection of treasures from the beach—flotsam! What are these objects and creatures? Who are they? What stories might they tell? With the help of an old camera, Pip’s imagination takes hold, conjuring extraordinary underwater creatures – fantastical and beautiful.

Guided by the idea of capturing things in photographs, curiosity and wonder lead Pip to discover a world beyond their own, connecting with other children across time and place and finding the courage to reach out and make friends.

Kerry Andrew’s luminous new score and text blends music, movement and storytelling to explore curiosity, connection and the boundless power of imagination — a spellbinding adventure for audiences of all ages.

Building on OperaUpClose’s reputation for creating “spell-binding, magical, inventive theatre” (A View from Behind the Arras) for children and their parents, Flotsam brings David Wiesner’s much-loved picture book to life.