When Universal Pixels was approached by Technical Director Harrison Cooke to supply video hardware to one of British TV’s most iconic series, Spitting Image, the visual impact on stage had to be executed with time critical and comedic precision.

40 years after Spitting Image was first filmed in Birmingham, the controversial puppets descended on the city once again - this time at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, where audiences would hear laugh out loud scenes from some of the UK’s best comedy writers. 

Scripted by Al Murray, Matt Forde and Sean Foley, who also directed this production, the 1980’s political masterpiece took to the stage courtesy of a creative powerhouse team that included Roger Law, the show’s original co-creator.

Universal Pixels’ Project Manager, James Adkins, oversaw the deployment of four Epson projectors and a disguise playback system.

Creative Director and Video Designer Nina Dunn of Pixel Lux led a team that delivered an unforgettable visual extravaganza; from video backdrops, to virtual 3D environments, photographic scenic set-ups and environmental effects, to proscenium surfaces for video mapping, the show was met with significant praise. 

Using Mapping Matter software, Harrison Cooke precisely measured acute angles to rig the projectors, where they remained integral to the stage environment. 

Dunn’s creative and technical teams were completed by Associate Video Designer and 2D Animator, Libby Ward, alongside 2D Animator Hannah Schlenker, 3D Animator, Will Jarman, Video Programmer, Arthur Skinner, Production Video Engineer, Nick Ward and Video Engineer, Ed Aspinall. 

Described as “A stunning technical achievement” by The Times and a “visual marvel” by What’s On Stage, critics were in agreement that this stage production was as memorable as any twisted tale from the UK’s recent political landscape!

The show’s success in Birmingham has led to a London run of the show. From May - August 2023, audiences can catch the comedy-come-musical experience at the Phoenix Theatre in Charing Cross. Sporting ‘the greatest cast the West End has ever seen’ you’ll find the likes of Tom Cruise, Greta Thunberg and Stormzy as you’ve never seen them before...

Watch the trailer here