Disco Puppy is an energetic interactive installation for children (and parents) which stars three larger than life dancing puppies: Pup Daddy, a smooth dancing hip-hop Chihuahua; Miss Kitty, a somewhat confused but still "pretty in pink" Maltese/Silky cross; and DJ Foxy, the Miniature Fox Terrier who may not have the moves, but certainly can play the tunes!

Disco Puppy aims to encourage creative play through active movement and dance. The installation is designed to support 1 through to 50 players, depending on the size of the installation space (1 person per square metre, is optimal for children to enjoy a safe experience). It is just as fun to play alone as it is to play in a group. This open nature of the work provides opportunities for interaction between the players, yet does not require this for a player to have fun.

Where space permits, a separate area for a range of other art and craft activities and events can also be included in the exhibition.

The installation space is reminiscent of a real disco or dance club space, modified to suit the interests of children. Each puppy performs one of 9 animated dance moves when children activate pressure sensitive mats positioned under colourful carpet squares. Pressure on each mat also activates unique sounds, which can be combined to contribute to the funky disco tunes played by DJ Foxie. There are three tunes, one to suit each puppy, which are remixed constantly by software on a computer controlling the DJ Foxie animation. This music was composed by well respected electronic dance musician Phil Thomson.

Children and Parents Playing in the Disco Puppy Installation at the Ipswich Art Gallery.

"Interact with art in your very own disco party with Disco Puppy. Your simple dance movements affect the moves of three life sized Disco dancing puppies. Dance movements also trigger the colourful disco lights and create funky disco tunes.

Disco Puppy aims to encourage creative play through which child learn about them selves, other people and their environment. It will also assist in developing children's motor skills and stimulate their imaginations. Included in the experience are art-making activities, parent prompts and interpretive labels." (From Ipswich Art Gallery brochure 2005)