The Swedish puppet play featuring bonking Barbies and explicit sex scenes has arrived in London, pushing boundaries of puppet theatre. Erik Holmström, director of Malmö Dockteater, brings Jackie Collins' banned novel The World Is Full of Married Men to the Yard theatre with reconstructed Barbie dolls and live video projection.
What Makes This Puppet Show Unique?
This experimental production merges theatre, film, and sexually active puppets in a way never seen before. The puppeteers operate headless Barbies and Kens with real hair and drilled holes, performing graphic scenes while a camera livestreams the miniature action on a large screen.
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The Controversial Source Material
Jackie Collins' debut novel was banned in several countries in 1968 for its explicit content. The puppet adaptation stays true to the author's graphic style, with Holmström stating: "If Jackie is telling us to do that, we do that."
Key Elements of the Production
- 14 intricately designed dollhouses as the set
- Two puppeteers who also perform as lifesize versions of the dolls
- Live video feed capturing detailed puppet interactions
- Swedish performances with English subtitles
- Explicit sex scenes using modified Barbie and Ken dolls
Comparison: Traditional Puppetry vs. This Production
| Element | Traditional Puppetry | Malmö Dockteater |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Children/Family | Adult (18+) |
| Content | G-rated stories | Explicit sexual themes |
| Puppet Design | Standard puppets | Modified Barbie dolls with genitalia |
| Technology | Minimal | Live video projection |
What Critics Are Saying
The show has already performed in Malmö and Stockholm before its London debut at the newly refurbished Yard theatre in east London. Holmström describes his original dream: "I had this dream of making a show where an audience sits together and secretly becomes a bit horny. You don't expect it from a puppet theatre."
Why This Matters for Experimental Theatre
This production challenges conventions about what puppet theatre can be. By merging adult themes with childhood toys, it creates a unique discomfort and fascination that has drawn international attention. The use of Barbie dolls specifically comments on sexuality and consumer culture.
FAQ
Is the puppet show suitable for children?
No, this production is strictly for adults 18+ due to explicit sexual content and nudity involving modified Barbie dolls.
Where can I see the Swedish puppet play in London?
The show is performed at the Yard theatre in east London, with performances in Swedish and English subtitles.
What novel is the puppet show based on?
It adapts Jackie Collins' debut novel The World Is Full of Married Men, first published in 1968 and banned in several countries.
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