Arts festival especially for kids

A NEW first-ever festival of art, tech and play for kids is coming to Bendigo.

The debut performance of The Creativerse, presented by Arena Theatre Company, will be held at Ulumbarra Theatre on 11 October.

Billed as an explosion of creativity, curiosity and immersive play, children aged three to 12 and their families can expect an exciting universe of art, technology and playful storytelling.

The one-day festival will feature free and ticketed events, immersive installations, live performances, and creative zones where kids are the artists, makers and inventors.

“The Creativerse is our latest adventure: a place where young imaginations run wild,” said Debra Allanson, CEO of Arena Theatre Company.

“We’re not just inviting kids to watch, we’re inviting them to participate and play.

“We’re excited to showcase amazing artists, both from around the world and right here in our region, for a day of fund and creativity the whole family can enjoy.”

Among the ticketed activities will be Polite Mammals, Finnegan the Fart Detective, Kiki and Zuki, and Someone in the Dark.

There will be free activities including workshops, storytelling, pop-up performances and digital projections driven by young participants.

Members of Arena Theatre Company are aiming for The Creativerse to become a fixture on the regional festival calendar.

It is supported by the Federal Government’s Festivals Australia program and the City of Greater Bendigo’s Partnering for Impact Grant.

“The Creativerse showcases the vibrant creative community in our region and gives children the chance to make art, not just watch it,” said Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters.

“It’s exciting, playful and uniquely Bendigo.”

The event will be held from 10am to 4pm in the Ulumbarra Theatre precinct, Bendigo. Visit thecreativerse.org.au.