An internationally-renowned traditional Chinese puppet show is coming to north Essex next month.

The Puppet Performing Unit at Jiangsu Performing Arts Group, which has performed in 30 countries worldwide, will put on a show at Clacton’s Princes Theatre on November 18.

It is being produced by the Classical Culture Company in association with the Clacton Chinese School.

As well as seeing the work of top puppeteers - including leading artist Hong Xu who has received a UNESCO world heritage award for her art – there will also be an exciting interactive element where audience members will be invited on stage to learn the basics of puppeteering.

Wendy Bilsby, Tendring District Council’s theatre marketing manager, said it is something totally different for the venue and hopes it will prove popular with all ages.

“Jiangsu and Essex have an ongoing friendship which goes back 27 years and we were pleased to be able to offer this performance to an audience in Clacton,” she said.

“It is all part of putting on an attractive and varied programme at the theatre and the traditional Chinese puppet show has more than 2,000 years history.

“It has been listed as National Cultural Heritage in China since 2006. The Chinese Puppet Show breaks down borders, as there is no language barrier to enjoyment.

“The performance is expressed through movement and body language. It is visual, entertaining, and educational.”

The show starts at 7.30pm and tickets priced from £6 to £12 are available from the box office on 01255 686633 or can be booked online at www.essex-live.co.uk.