Plymouth’s most famous penguins are back, after public demand on social media.

A Rockhoppas show reel is teasing some of the much-loved characters that were first created in 2010 in a book entitled “The Adventures of Larry the Pirate”- and cartoon strips that first featured in the Evening Herald for nearly two years in 2011/2012.

Creator Kevin Kelway told The Beagle: “My Rockhoppas began life as stories invented as a boy growing up on Plymouth’s historic Barbican in the late 1960s, 1970s, 1980s.

“The characters are larger-than-life Rockhoppas penguins with big personalities, big hearts and a very Barbican sense of humour.”

Their stories captured imaginations far beyond Plymouth – spanning the South Atlantic seas, a Devonport-based warship, and Drake’s Island, where they were granted Royal Status to make their home.

Now, after years of love and support from fans, the Rockhoppas are returning in a bold new form.

The brand-new clip (see below) gives audiences a first taste of what’s to come — the characters, the comedy, the music and the unmistakable Rockhoppas spirit, reimagined for a new generation while staying true to the stories that started it all on the Barbican.

In January 2027, www.rockhoppasfactory.com will launch — the new home of the Rockhoppas. 

Fans can expect news, characters, stories, show updates, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content as the Rockhoppas Factory opens its doors.

Kevin told The Beagle: “This has always been about Plymouth, about community, and about characters people can love.

“The Rockhoppas are more than a cartoon they are a celebration of friendship, resilience, theatrical family cabaret, and home — told through penguins who never give up, who look after each other, and who always find their way back to Plymouth.”

Watch the ShowReel: