There was no fear of failure for the Year 5 students at Gladstone Primary Academy as they worked with acclaimed theatre maker and musician, Kid Carpet, on his new show Epic Fail.  Epic Fail celebrated the joys and discoveries of useless inventions and unexpected discoveries, and how they are part of everyday life. 

For many years Kid Carpet has been creating entertaining family shows, full of catchy songs and madcap adventures, but this is the first time he created a show with children, who are also in the show as the star performers who save the day.

“I noticed that my kids were becoming reluctant to have a go at new things and I realised that a fear of failure was preventing them from sticking their necks out. They were missing out on some really fun stuff. The Epic Fail project is an attempt to put some have-a-go attitude into the hearts of children. In this selfie-age it’s been helpful to remember that to get things wrong is a naturally human trait.” Says Kid Carpet

 Epic Fail was part of a national project by the Moving Roots network, and toured to Cardiff, Stoke and Wigan, but it made it’s first showing in Peterborough, and is co-produced by local company, Jumped Up Theatre.

“We have had great success with Kid Carpet shows in our Platform 8 Theatre Festivals,” explains Kate Hall, Jumped Up’s Producer, “So we are really pleased to have the opportunity for 90 Gladstone students to have had workshops with him, and now over 30 students will be onstage with Kid Carpet, performing to their parents, friends and family.”

 All the students explored Chindogu, the Japanese art of useless inventions, learnt about accidental inventions, such as cornflakes and penicillin, practised clowning skills and developed their own well-being plans. 

“Having the courage to take risks and be creative is important for all learners, but especially after time away from school during the lockdowns.  It is also great to give our children the opportunity of working with an artist and to see theatre being made – it’s the type of experience they will never forget.” said Headteacher, Simon Martin.

About Gladstone Primary Academy: Gladstone Primary Academy is a multicultural primary school near the centre of Peterborough. It is located in the heart of Millfield and the school population reflect the multicultural and multi-lingual local community. See the school’s website here.

Why ‘Epic Failure’?

Research shows that there is a link between attitude to failure and the wellbeing of young people. We feel that this work is important and urgent as young people face many stresses, are scared to fail, and discouraged to take risks. 

How Seriously Do You Take Failure?

Amy Judge, our Kickstart Apprentice, has been inspired to research other experts in failure - FOLLOW THIS LINK to see what she has found out.

Kid Carpet is an acclaimed musician and performance maker from Bristol, with a track record of successful shows which have toured the UK, including sold out shows in Peterborough. More information about Ed, who is Kid Carpet, on his website here.