Theatre Royal’s ‘The People’s Parade’ brought a 100-strong cast of crabs, whales, evil polluters, earth protectors and other colourful characters with a clear environmental message on to the streets of Waterford for Cruinniú na nÓg, a national day of creativity for children and young people.

The Parade was a collaborative project involving members of the Theatre Royal team, led by artist in residence Nick Kavanagh and Curious State Theatre Company, and children from local primary schools St. Declan’s NS, Newtown Junior School and Christchurch NS. Over a six-week period, Nick and musician Killian Browne worked with the children to create costumes and props from single-use plastics and write songs highlighting how young people might use theatre and the arts to tackle climate change.

The pupils and their teachers gathered at the Theatre Royal on Saturday 10^th June and, as part of the Cruinniú na nÓg celebrations, set off on a giant musical parade which promenaded around the city centre, culminating in a concert at the Cultural Quarter, where each participating class performed their songs, all highlighting how we can help protect our planet and nature.

The project was a great success in encouraging and empowering teachers and children to consider climate and the environment using the art of creating stories, songs and characters.