INNOVATIVE Dorset puppetry theatre company, Carnival of Objects, will showcase its new production, The Sea, in Bournemouth on Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25.

The show at Shelley Theatre is centred on the Hebridean coastal folk tales of the ‘selkies’ (or ‘seal folk’) and has strong sea conservation themes.

Artistic director, Nicky Baylis said: “We are really excited to be working with such brilliant local artists.

“Actors, musicians, theatre designers and film-makers are all collaborating on this project with so much creativity and enthusiasm.”

Carnival of Objects has recently won Arts Council England funding.

Nicky added: “So much work has gone into the creation of the puppets and masks, which I began making over two years ago, so it is wonderful to see the characters emerge and being brought to life by our performers. The music is absolutely beautiful, the whole piece is very atmospheric.”

Carnival of Objects is also collaborating with Talbot Heath School, Arts University Bournemouth, Bournemouth and Poole College and Marine Conservation Society, to create a giant puppet, mask and costume community parade starting at Boscombe Pier at 4pm on Sunday, June 25. To buy tickets see shelleytheatre.co.uk