'Up the Foyle in a Bubble' to Delight Audiences at Foyle Maritime Festival 2026
A colourful new family street theatre production will make its debut at this year's Foyle Maritime Festival, as Greater Shantallow Community Arts / Studio 2 Creative Enterprise presents Up the Foyle in a Bubble.
Created especially for the festival programme in partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council, the bespoke production promises a lively celebration of the River Foyle through music, dance, storytelling and interactive theatre.
Audiences will be introduced to Pearl, Coral and Bubbles, three mischievous mermaids who are caught in a storm and washed ashore on the banks of the River Foyle. Far from home and searching for a way back to the sea, they encounter a friendly Sailor who shares fascinating stories from the river's rich history, from the bustling dockers who once worked along the quay to Derry's legendary whale, Dopey Dick.
Blending local heritage with imagination, the 20-minute performance is designed for audiences of all ages, celebrating the unique character of the River Foyle through colourful costumes, lively performances and plenty of magical moments.
Taking place along the Quay, the production forms part of the packed programme of entertainment at the Foyle Maritime Festival, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy free, family-friendly street theatre throughout the weekend.
Performance Information
📍 Location: Along the Quay
📅 Dates: Saturday 27 June & Sunday 28 June
🕐 Show Times:
1:00pm – 1:20pm
2:00pm – 2:20pm
3:00pm – 3:20pm
3:40pm – 4:00pm
⏱️ Duration: Approximately 20 minutes
Families are encouraged to come along and experience a joyful journey filled with friendship, adventure and maritime magic as Up the Foyle in a Bubble brings the stories of the River Foyle to life during one of the city's biggest annual celebrations.
