The Art House Presents
Beetle
By Legs On The Wall

An instant Australian classic, Beetle tells the story of a child who finds a friend in her backyard; together they embark on an adventure to search for his family, the now elusive Christmas Beetle.

The magic of the bush habitat is brought to life through Legs On The Wall’s trademark physical storytelling, and animation created from original artworks by beloved children’s author and illustrator Freya Blackwood.

A tale of resilience and hope, Beetle reminds young audiences that there’s an important place in the world for all of us. Reminding us of the delicate balance of the natural world and that all things are connected.

This charming, nostalgic and uniquely Australian show invites children and families to join the adventure, encountering larger than life beetles, stick insects, and other bush critters while finding out about the uncanny nature and delicate balance of the bush environment.

“A striking show… with seamless imagination.” ★★★★
- The Scotsman

Note: Beetle is part of The Art House's 2025 Education Programming. Limited seating is available to the General Public in school group performances. A Post Show Q&A will take place after each performance of Beetle, where students can ask questions about the performance. Teachers are advised to factor this into their excursion planning.

For School Group Bookings please email: Education@thearthousewyong.com.au

BEETLE is commissioned by the North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA) and The Art House — Wyong and was supported by Inner West Council. The 2025 tour has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body, and is proudly funded by the NSW Government.

Director's Note

One of my most loved childhood memories, in late November or early December, a very special sharing happened with my family. It didn't matter who saw it first but when we did, we would bring our whole family together to look at this incredible seasonal event. The first Christmas beetle. Knowing more would come in the following weeks. I remember it stood as a symbol of Christmas, summer, water, heat, fun, family and friends.

Now, even though my family are living all over Australia, we all still share if we see one. Unfortunately, we’re seeing them less and less. Beetle is a story of hope; it reminds us of the importance of the smallest things; our responsibility to let it live on through different stories, every new summer.

- Joshua Thomson, Co-Creator/Director Beetle