Buxton Opera House to support Cahoots Ni’s hit production ‘The Vanishing Elephant’ in first tour across England

PLAYING IN BUXTON FROM 6 – 8 JUNE 2025

Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre is proud to announce its association with Cahoots NI in Belfast, where it will support the incredible hit production of The Vanishing Elephant on its tour across England for the very first time this summer, including shows at the prestigious Buxton Opera House in June 2025.

The Vanishing Elephant mesmerised critics and audiences alike in the USA and was named ‘Critics Pick’ in The New York Times, hailing it as an “alluring spectacle” during the production’s premiere off Broadway in 2023.

The Vanishing Elephant is a moving tale of friendship and belonging, featuring original music and choreography, astonishing on-stage puppetry, and a talented cast made of international performers.

It follows the story of Opu, a young boy in Bengal, who dreams of one day becoming an elephant trainer. When he befriends Janu, an Asian Elephant, their friendship is the first step on an adventure so huge, it spans decades and continents. On their separate paths they face many challenges – fearsome encounters, stormy seas and strange new worlds.

Years in the future, Opu, now an old man, hears that world famous magician Harry Houdini will vanish an elephant, live on stage in New York City. Could it really be Janu, Opu’s old friend, so far from home? He too must bravely make the long journey into the unknown to find out.

Paul Kerryson, CEO of Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre expressed his excitement for the organisation’s association this summer of Cahoots NI’s production of The Vanishing Elephant:

“We are excited to present The Vanishing Elephant in association with the renowned company, Cahoots NI. The Vanishing Elephant is one of the most wonderful and innovative theatre experiences I have ever seen. I am thrilled that following a hugely successful American tour, this amazing production is coming to Buxton Opera House. A remarkable story that will appeal to all ages. This will be a truly magical performance and one of the most spectacular events we have ever staged at the Opera House.”

Cahoots NI’s Artistic Director, Paul Bosco Mc Eneaney also welcomed the news:

“We are delighted to be presenting The Vanishing Elephant in association with Buxton Opera House this summer. We are incredibly lucky to be working with such a talented line-up of artists from around the world, and to see them bring this important story to life on such a, beautiful, historic stage will be a special moment for the organisation. There are so many elements of this show that people of all ages will connect with – original music, incredible puppetry and a really inspiring story – we can’t wait to share it with audiences young and old, in Buxton and beyond.”

Critics across Ireland and the USA were moved by The Vanishing Elephant:

“The craftsmanship of the puppet and the flawless movements of the ensemble of puppeteers, combine to give her personality and make a strong emotional connection with audiences of all ages” – Jenny Lee, The Irish News

 “captivatingly told…’, ’as poignant as it is joyful” – Michael Quinn, British Theatre Guide

“A Soulful family concoction that evokes War Horse and Life of PI”, “Undeniably moving” – Adrian Dimanlig

“The puppets are so amazing that most of the time I looked at the puppets and I forgot they were puppets, I thought they were real animals!” – Broadway World Kid Critics

“The most amazing theater experience for families…the show was incredible (still mesmerized by Jenny the elephant!)” – Little Kid Big City New York

Cahoots NI’s production of The Vanishing Elephant is proudly supported by Culture Ireland. This production was also made possible through generous support by both Belfast International Arts Festival and British Council NI.

Buxton Opera House’s association with Cahoots NI’s production of The Vanishing Elephant has been made possible thanks to the generous support of Arts Council England.

The Vanishing Elephant will play at Buxton Opera House between Friday 6 June – Sunday 8 June 2025.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting the website at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk, or calling the Box Office on 01298 72190. The production will also tour in June 2025 to Oxford Playhouse and The Belgrade Theatre in Coventry (presented in association with Buxton Opera House).

In addition, The Vanishing Elephant will also play at the Southbank Centre in London between Thursday 29 May – Sunday 1 June 2025. Further dates are to be announced in due course. For more information on other listings of The Vanishing Elephant, please visit www.cahootsni.com.