The Tales of Hoffmann is an opera based on stories by E.T.A. Hoffmann and follows the poet Hoffmann as he recounts three tragic love affairs: the mechanical doll Olympia, the singer Antonia and the courtesan Giulietta, each representing a different facet of his romantic imagination. The Cannon Hill Puppet Theatre premiered its adaptation in 1971 with a cast that included David Moodie, David Claridge, Simon Barron, Jan Tupman, Jeanne Delaney and George Fredericks. Written, designed and directed for the puppet stage by John Blundall, the production showcased his distinctive visual style and his ability to translate operatic drama into compelling puppet theatre.
