Emu tale goes from page to stage

Coming to Costa Hall from July 29-30, the award-winning Monkey Baa Theatre Company returns to Geelong to present a brand-new take on a much-loved classic, Edward The Emu, as part of the Geelong Arts Centre 2022 Family Magic program.

Based on the beloved books by Sheena Knowles and Rod Clement, this unique imagining combines the plight of both Edward The Emu and Edwina The Emu in one heartfelt, funny, and clever tale.

In Eva Di Cesare’s 50-minute stage adaptation, follow the emus as they hilariously navigate their own feathered existential crises, seeking to find their place in world, while their human keepers are in hot pursuit to restore order to the zoo.

Featuring exceptional, world-class puppetry, an original score, award-winning set, costume and lighting design, and inventive storytelling, the emus’ journey of hijinx and tenderness leads young audiences to discover that the best thing you can be is you.

Suitable for children aged 4-10 and their adults, Edward The Emu carries on Monkey Baa Theatre Company’s long-standing vision to make theatre an intrinsic part of young people’s lives.

Performances will take place on Friday, July 29 at 6.30pm and Saturday, July 30 at noon (Relaxed Performance with AUSLAN Interpreter) and 2.30pm at Costa Hall.

Relaxed Performances welcome audiences who would benefit from a more relaxed environment – this can include but is not limited to people with autism, sensory sensitivities, learning disabilities or dementia, as well as those living with anxiety or who have experienced trauma.

For young ones who prefer a more supportive environment, Relaxed Performances enhance the theatre experience for all children, while keeping the beloved story of Edward and Edwina completely unchanged.

“After a sold out string of Pete The Sheep performances last year, we’re so pleased to have Monkey Baa Theatre Company return to Geelong Arts Centre’s Family Magic line up with this highly entertaining and original, award winning performance that is sure to have children of the region reeling with laughter and delight,” Geelong Arts Centre associate producer Emily Donoghue said.

Geelong Arts Centre’s 2022 Family Magic program is proudly supported by the Victorian government through Creative Victoria, its Major Artistic Partner, Deakin University, and its Program Sponsor, Geelong
Connected Communities.

Tickets for Edward the Emu at Costa Hall (in Deakin’s Waterfront campus) on July 29 and July 30 are on sale now at geelongartscentre.org.au/familymagic-2022/edward-the-emu

Bookings for all three performances can be made via the Geelong Arts Centre website, or by phoning the Box Office on 1300 251 200 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.