Following the resounding success of the inaugural Wonder Children’s Festival in 2023, Geelong Arts Centre is thrilled to announce the return of the enchanting program, set to captivate young hearts and minds from today – Thursday 12 September.
Young people, families and schools are invited to celebrate the end of Term 3 and dive into the school holidays at Geelong’s premiere children’s festival through a vibrant line-up of events.
“At the heart of Geelong Arts Centre’s mission is our role as a vital connector within the arts sector, especially for our youngest audience members and their families,” said Geelong Arts Centre Head of Programming, Penny McCabe.
“Through the Wonder Children’s Festival, we are not only fostering a love for the arts but also serving as a beacon, bringing together communities, artists, and enthusiasts alike. It’s a testament to our commitment to lead the charge in providing enriching cultural experiences that unite and inspire generations.”
Kicking off the festival from 13 – 14 September, Alison Lester’s iconic best selling book is brought to life at IMAGINE LIVE – a joyous celebration of the natural world produced by NCM and Jolyon James.
From 18 – 19 September, Lemony S Puppet Theatre transports audiences into space at Little Blue Dot – a visually striking theatre piece developed in collaboration with the team from Monash University School of Physics and Astronomy.
Bridging the epic two weeks of family fun, 21 – 22 September boasts a weekend filled with headliner performances from iconic family rockers, The Teeny Tiny Stevies and the classic stage adaption of beloved children’s tale The Gruffalo by CDP and Tall Stories.
Finishing off the festival with a bang, I Wish offers an acrobatic journey into the magic of individuality and the limitless possibilities of imagination in an exciting collaboration between two internationally renowned leaders in children’s performance, Patch Theatre and Gravity & Other Myths.
While an abundance of whimsical performances await, children and families are also encouraged to join interactive workshops, create their own art, and explore the world of performing arts in a way that sparks curiosity and fosters a lifelong love for creativity.
The Wonder Children’s Festival takes place at the Geelong Arts Centre from 12 – 26 September 2024. For more information and full program, visit: www.geelongartscentre.org.au for details.
Image: Wonder Children’s Festival – courtesy of Geelong Arts Centre