Wakefield is set to become the stage for a truly magical event this August Bank Holiday, as The Hatchling, an extraordinary outdoor theatrical performance, arrives in the city.
This free, three-day spectacle promises to captivate audiences of all ages with its grand scale, intricate puppetry, and community involvement, making it a must-see event as part of the Our Year – Wakefield District 2024 initiative.
What Is The Hatchling?
The Hatchling is no ordinary puppet; it is the largest human-operated puppet in the world designed to take flight. With a wingspan exceeding 20 metres, this dragon is the creation of Trigger, an award-winning creative team renowned for their innovative work in puppetry, kites, and immersive theatre.
The dragon will make its debut in Wakefield, providing an unforgettable experience as it explores the city and interacts with the community.
Event Schedule
The adventure begins on Friday, 23 August, with The Hatchling emerging from an egg at Wakefield Cathedral. Over the next two days, the dragon will traverse Wakefield City Centre, engaging in a series of specially curated events that highlight its majestic presence. The weekend will reach a dramatic climax on Sunday, 25 August, as The Hatchling spreads its wings and takes flight over Pugneys Country Park, accompanied by an afternoon filled with festivities and family-friendly activities.
- Wakefield City Centre: Friday 23 – Saturday 24 August, 10:30am – 7:30pm
- Pugneys Country Park: Sunday 25 August, 3:00pm – 10:00pm
How to Plan Your Visit
To ensure you don’t miss a moment of this unique experience, here are some important details to help you plan your visit:
Travel and Parking
Please note that there will be no onsite parking at Pugneys Country Park on Sunday, 25 August. However, a free shuttle bus service will be available from 2:45pm to 11:00pm, running between Wakefield, Pontefract, and Hemsworth. Additionally, Wakefield City Centre is well-connected by local buses, and there are two train stations within a 15-minute walk from the event locations.
Accessibility
The organisers are committed to making The Hatchling accessible to everyone. Accessibility features include Quiet Hubs, British Sign Language (BSL) videos, Audio Description Sessions, and accessible parking at Pugneys Country Park on Sunday.
Wakefield’s Community Involvement
This event is not just a spectacle but a community celebration. Wakefield Council and Trigger have collaborated with over 20 community groups, involving more than 300 participants from across the district. These local groups, including sports clubs, choirs, craft circles, dancers, and youth organisations, will add their own special touch to the event, making The Hatchling’s journey through Wakefield a true reflection of the city’s vibrant community spirit.
Fringe Activities: More Than Just a Show
In addition to the main performance, visitors can enjoy a variety of fringe activities throughout the weekend. These include craft workshops, storytelling sessions, and even Bollywood dancing, all designed to enhance the festive atmosphere as The Hatchling makes its way through the city.
These activities, organised by Wakefield’s partners, offer something for everyone and provide an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the weekend’s events.
Experience the Magic This Bank Holiday
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this August Bank Holiday weekend in Wakefield is set to be an unforgettable experience. From the awe-inspiring flight of The Hatchling to the diverse community performances and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Make sure to mark your calendar and be part of this once-in-a-lifetime event that celebrates creativity, community, and the enchanting art of storytelling.
