The breathtaking interactive puppet experience The Whale will see Melbournians and visitors dive into a free dreamlike underwater world on the Arts Centre Melbourne Forecourt from 17 – 24 January 2026. The Whale is part of a spectacular line-up of activities, performances and events set to bring the heart of Melbourne city alive this summer.
Families will have the opportunity to choose between the astonishing acrobatic performances staged in Ten Thousand Hours, journey through the universe with Patch Theatre’s award-winning immersive show ZOOOM, travel far, far away with the West End sensation Shrek The Musical or experience the Emmy award winning children’s television series Bluey brought to real life with Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show.
Arts Centre Melbourne Creative Producer, Families & Children Mary Harvey said she is delighted The Whale will be bringing free outdoor entertainment to Arts Centre Melbourne’s forecourt in January. “Arts Centre Melbourne is shaping up to be the essential destination for families this summer,” said Harvey.
“The marvellous team at Spare Parts Puppet Theatre previously enchanted visitors to our forecourt in 2019 with their giant illuminated puppet String Symphony. The impressive craftsmanship and limitless imagination presented in their latest immersive installation The Whale is sure to create magical memories for all ages.”
“The Whale is the definitive ‘cherry on top’ for our families summer program. From incredible performances, jaw-dropping talents and marvellous adventures, visitors of all ages to Arts Centre Melbourne will be able to engage and connect with the performing arts in new and exciting ways,” said Harvey.
Designed by Leon Hendroff, and brought to life by Western Australia’s beloved Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, The Whale is a remarkable 10-metre-long immersive puppetry experience. Visitors to the Arts Centre Melbourne forecourt will be invited to join a deep-sea journey, animating the creature as it migrates through the space, surrounded by an array of fantastical sea creatures and a hypnotic soundscape.
Spare Parts Puppet Theatre Artistic Director Philip Mitchell said the giant puppet installation captured the essence of the ocean’s largest creatures and invites reflection on their majesty and importance. “In many cultures, whales are a symbol of mystery and magnificence, stirring a profound connection within us,” said Mitchell.
“The Whale allows families to imagine the whale’s world up close, inspiring wonder and respect for the natural world through puppetry and storytelling. It’s a beautiful opportunity to connect, learn and create shared memories.”
Through imaginative storytelling and a captivating original score, the installation immerses participants in themes of migration, myth and mystery. With free admission, The Whale offers an engaging and accessible experience for all.
Audiences of all ages can join the puppeteers to bring these magnificent creatures to life, while discovering the vital role whales play in our ecosystem, why they matter to the community, and how they can be protected for future generations.
Throughout the summer months, a variety of workshops designed for children and their parents to learn and develop skills in music production, magic, dance, magic and performance will be available to participate in at Arts Centre Melbourne. Keep an eye on the PLAY program webpage at artscentremelbourne.com.au for dates and times.
Image: The Whale – photo by Tashi Hall