Monkey Baa Magic
Join a host of treasured characters from the beloved world of Possum Magic, as they bound off the page and onto the stage!
By Betty Sweetlove
On their way to Darwin and Alice Springs this month is leading Australian children’s theatre company, Monkey Baa. Creators of delightful, whimsical and thought-provoking theatre, Monkey Baa has been in the business of producing original work for young audiences for over 25 years.
Artistic Director Eva Di Cesare says the show has received incredible reception across Australia.
“The best part is connecting with remote and regional young people – seeing the joy in young people’s faces and the laughter.”
The story of Hush and Grandma Poss is a national treasure, and Cesare says transforming the magic and wonder of Mem Fox’s picture book into a theatre show was a privilege. Alongside the designer, director, artists, actors and puppeteers, the company invited a special group of young collaborators into the rehearsal room to share their ideas.
“We spent a few months working with Year 3 and Year 4 students on the themes and the issues they found most important. This was very important to us in the writing process as the voices of young people were present as we wrote the play.”
The show premiered to rave reviews in 2019, packed with dance, music, physical theatre, projection, puppets, and of course, magic. On the stage, the bush adventures and characters sparkle with unbelievable magical moments that enchant audiences both young and old.
“Audiences have many laughs and enjoy the story being told in a magical way. We worked with a real magician, Adam Mada, to create the show, and his magic is amazing!” says Cesare.
An action-packed 50 minutes of adventure and illusion, Possum Magic is a theatrical delight for the little ones and their families.
Possum Magic
Darwin
WHEN MON 24 JUL, 5.30PM | TUE 25 JUL, 9.30AM & 12PM
AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
COST $29
INFO yourcentre.com.au
Alice Springs
WHEN THU 27 JUL, 6PM | FRI 28 JUL, 10AM & 1PM
AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE
COST $25 | $22.50 CONC $20 CHILD
INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au
