A brand-new show, Talisman, premieres at the Moor Imagination Centre (MIC) this October — an atmospheric evening of storytelling, puppetry, light, shadow, and music that weaves traditional wondertales together with echoes of wartime history. At its heart lies the probing wisdom of Baba Yaga, asking what choices we make when no good choices remain.
In the candle-lit glow and the stove-side warmth of a winter night, a mother’s hands are working. Folding, knotting, a coin for luck and an ear of corn for plenty. Herbs for life’s sweetness. A whisper of reassurance, a wish against the encroaching dark. This will be the last gift she can make for her growing daughter. As the poppet takes shape, the mother gradually fades. Only the blessing remains.
Years later, in a world blown apart by war, this is the gift the young woman carries into the dark.
Drawing on the rich tradition of Slavic folklore, Baba Yaga is often portrayed as a fearsome yet wise figure — a guide at life’s thresholds. Expect shadow play, haunting music and a story that lingers.
Event details:
- Event: Talisman
- Date: Friday 17 October 2025
- Location: Moor Imagination Centre
- Doors: 7pm • Show starts: 7.30pm
- Suitable for: 14+
- Content warning: descriptions of wartime brutality
- Presented by: Three Hands Theatre
Three Hands Theatre are Ronnie Conboy (storyteller), James Richardson (puppeteer) and Lisa Rowe (musician). Come and join us for a journey into the dark — and discover what light might be found there. We’d love to see you.
For booking and contact details for the Moor Imagination Centre, please see the group’s listing on our Community Groups page.