Wonder Children's Festival to return

The Wonder Children’s Festival is returning to the Geelong Arts Centre for the second year, running from September 12 to September 26.

After the success of the inaugural event last year, the 2024 festival lineup invites young people, families and schools to jump into the school holidays.

Geelong Arts Centre head of programming Penny McCabe said through the children’s festival, Geelong Arts Centre was fostering a love for the arts and bringing together communities, artists and enthusiasts.

“It’s a testament to our commitment to lead the charge in providing enriching cultural experiences that unite and inspire generations

Across the two weeks of events, children will also be able to participate in interactive workshops.

“At the heart of the Geelong Arts Centre’s mission is our role as a vital connector with the arts sector, especially for our youngest audience members and their families.”

A range of performances make up the festival including Imagine LIVE, which will kick things off from September 12 to September 13.

Alison Lester’s popular children’s book will come to life as performers play and sing their way through the story.

September 21 will see the Teeny Tiny Stevies take the stage, playing some of their favourite hits and music from the duo’s most recent album, as the performance bridges the two weeks of the festival.

The stage adaptation of award-winning children’s book The Gruffalo, will return to Australia after sell-out seasons across the world with four shows at the Geelong Arts Centre from September 21 until September 22.

Children and their families will have a range of performances and activities to choose from across the two weeks.

The show, aimed at children aged three years and above, also includes an Auslan-interpreted performance at the 3pm show on September 21.

To finish off the festival, Patch Theatre and Gravity & Other Myths are joining forces to present I Wish, featuring acrobatics and the possibilities of imagination.

Across the two weeks, children and their parents will also be able to join in interactive workshops, explore the world of performing arts and create their own art.

For the full program, tickets and more information, head to geelongartscentre.org.au