Ogier sponsors National Trust Jersey's production of The Silent Garden Puppet Show

Following the success of the National Trust for Jersey's latest children's book, the charity has commissioned, with Ogier's support, an immersive puppet show to bring the tale to life.

The Silent Garden, written by local author Penny Byrne, tells the story of two children who convince their grandparents to transform their barren garden into an oasis for wildlife.

Through a mix of skilful puppetry, songs and live action, the puppet show will promote environmental awareness among five to seven-year-olds and teach them the importance of biodiversity and how they can encourage wildlife into their gardens. The original tale has been adapted by puppeteers Carla-Marie Metcalfe and Beth Greenwood, who have previously performed with the Butterfly Theatre Company at the National Trust for Jersey's Georgian House in St Helier.

Kate Kirk, Marketing Director at Ogier, said: "We're delighted to sponsor the National Trust for Jersey's production of The Silent Garden Puppet Show. Protecting our green spaces, whether it’s a private garden or public park, and transforming these to provide better habitats for local wildlife is so important to helping our local environment thrive.

"At Ogier, we're committed to reducing our impact on our local environment. To do this, it's key to not only support sustainable initiatives that take immediate action to reduce impact – such as beach cleans, recycling schemes, and setting net-zero targets – but to also support sustainable initiatives that focus on education. Only by changing mindsets can we create a lasting impact and the next generation will soon be the ones leading the fight."

The Silent Garden Puppet Show, due to Ogier's sponsorship, is touring local schools this week (11-15 July) before heading to Quetivel Mill for five days during the start of the summer holidays.

The show, which is suitable for the whole family, was commissioned by National Trust for Jersey's Museums Manager, Catherine Ward, who also commissioned the Butterfly Theatre Company's productions at 16 New Street.

Catherine said: "Introducing education and knowledge about environmental awareness in the early years can help shape positive and caring attitudes for how children should treat the world around them. We hope that by bringing The Silent Garden to life as an enchanting puppet show, students will gain a real understanding into some of the challenges wildlife face when their natural habitats are destroyed and how it is possible to create a nature friendly environment that can be enjoyed by all."

Families will be able to watch The Silent Garden Puppet Show at Quetivel Mill in St Peter from Wednesday 20 July to Sunday 24 July, with performances at 10am, 12:30pm and 3pm. Booking is essential. Author Penny Byrne will be on site signing copies of the book at every performance and free spotter charts will be handed out after each show to encourage families to explore the biodiversity in the neighbouring woodland.

For more information, or to book your tickets, visit: Silent Garden Puppet Show | National Trust for Jersey