Willoughby Council Inspiring and Engaging Children’s Imaginations

Willoughby Council Mayor, Tanya Taylor says, “Sparking the imaginations of children and engaging them in stories helps them understand the value of relationships and cultural connections between place, people and planet. Children are the caretakers and advocates of the next generation, so it’s important that, as a community, we open their minds and emotions to new experiences, exposing them to new ways of communicating and expanding their understanding of the world.”

There will be two unique and immersive performances for families and schools to enjoy during term two: Black Sun/Blood Moon (2 -3 June), a play about the climate crisis ages 12+, and Alphabetical Sydney: All Aboard! (20 June), a musical adventure, ages 5+. The third performance, Mini Maestros (7 July), a rendition of the timeless symphonic classic Peter and the Wolf, is planned for the school holidays, ages 4+.

Here’s more about the performances that will play on The Concourse stage in Chatswood:

Black Sun/Blood Moon (2 -3 June)

Featuring stunning video and projection and amazing life-size puppetry by Erth Visual and Physical, Black Sun/Blood Moon is a fantastical story about finding your voice and saving the world. Inspired by the Fridays for Future student-led climate change protests, two intertwining stories – one magical, the other all too real – sends two unlikely heroes, Maddy, a 10-year-old climate champion, and Katie, the underachieving assistant of a climate-denying politician, on an incredible adventure to save the planet.

Appealing to families with children 12 and over, and schools seeking an experience for students that intersects drama and English with society and culture/environment studies, Black Sun/Blood Moon is a conversation starter about the most pressing issue of our day – our climate. It’s full of hope and designed to inspire action.

Alphabetical Sydney: All Aboard! (20 June)

Inspired by Hilary Bell and Antonia Pesenti’s best-selling picture book, this immersive musical will take audiences of all ages on a journey around the world’s most famous harbour city. Our guides, the chaotic Ibis and order-loving Nanna, bring us on a whirlwind adventure. Climb aboard the tour bus to discover their Sydney, one letter at a time.

Combining puppetry, theatre, songs and creative play with irresistible music by Greta Gertler Gold, Alphabetical Sydney: All Aboard! is a celebration of all that makes this city unique.

Audience participation will have the kids laughing, dancing, singing and jumping from their seats in what is a truly magical theatre experience for all ages.

Mini Maestros (7 July)

Th enchanting Peter and the Wolf, the story of a young boy and his animal friends, will be brought to life by the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra led by charismatic conductor George Ellis and the evocative narration of Australian author and singer-songwriter Josh Pyke.

The playful melodies of the flute, haunting strains of the oboe and the bold brassy sounds of the horns each portray a different character in this much-loved classic, creating a captivating symphonic experience for all ages. Don't miss your chance to witness the magic of Peter and the Wolf with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra.

Ticket prices and booking links:

Black Sun/Blood Moon (2 -3 June): Adult $39, Concession $37, Junior/Child $33, Family (2 Adults, 2 children) $132, Group 10 $230 https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/106834

Alphabetical Sydney: All Aboard! (20 June): Adult $39, Concession $37, Junior/Child $33, Family (2 Adults, 2 children) $132, Group 10 $230 https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/106834

Mini Maestros (7 July): All Tickets $30 https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/108830