A beloved Australian children’s book that has delighted families for more than two decades is heading to Newcastle, with Monkey Baa Theatre Company bringing its stage adaptation of Where is the Green Sheep? to Civic Theatre Newcastle in July.
Based on the bestselling picture book by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek, the production transforms the 190-word story into an immersive visual theatre experience designed for children aged one to six and their families.
Blending puppetry, animation and live performance, the show follows three farmers on a quest to find the elusive Green Sheep.
Along the way, audiences meet a colourful cast of characters including Blue Sheep, Red Sheep, Bath Sheep and Bed Sheep. The production has been co-created with students from Bankstown West Public School, whose voices feature as narrators, helping connect the story with young audiences.
Monkey Baa Artistic Director and co-founder Eva Di Cesare said the production has broad appeal for families looking to share a live theatre experience together.
“Predominantly, this work is for children aged 1-6. What is a wonderful aspect of this production, though, is that generations can enjoy it together. Grandparents, parents and their children share in the experience. There is something for everyone,” she said.
“Where is the Green Sheep? is an immersive visual theatre experience based on the beloved children’s book by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek.
We meet Blue Sheep who loves blue flowers and Red Sheep who loves to cartwheel in the fields, Bath Sheep who loves bubbles and Bed Sheep who loves to bounce… But where IS that Green Sheep?”
The show is a co-production between Monkey Baa Theatre Company and Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s Out of the Box Festival and was created in association with Arts Centre Melbourne, the Sydney Opera House and The Art House, Wyong.
Di Cesare said Newcastle has long been an important stop for the company’s touring productions.
“Monkey Baa has performed its works in Newcastle frequently. Newcastle is always included as an important and enthusiastic city for Monkey Baa’s productions.
“We love performing at the Civic Theatre.”
Where is the Green Sheep? will take over the Civic Theatre Newcastle from 9–11 July. Tickets are on sale now, with families encouraged to secure seats early for what promises to be a magical school holiday theatre experience. Visit civictheatrenewcastle.com.au for more information.
