Adapted from Albert Lamorisse's Oscar-winning 1956 film, this highly theatrical version features a trio of flea-ridden street animals and a lonely little boy who finds, and befriends, a big red balloon.

Set in working-class Paris soon after the War, the story follows Pascal and his new friend via puppetry, music and song, as they withstand the disapproval of those around them. Pascal commits the sin of standing out from the crowd - hard not to with a large rubber balloon for a companion - for which a gang of bullies sees he pays the ultimate price. But when all seems lost, hope arrives in a surprising form and carries Pascal high above the rooftops of his city.