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Info
The Art House Presents
An Australian Chamber Orchestra Production
How to Catch a Star
Based on the book by Oliver Jeffers
Adapted for the stage by Sandra Eldridge with original music by Elena Kats-Chernin
Once there was a boy and the boy loved stars very much.
Every night he watched the stars from his window and wished he had one of his own.
One day, he decided he would try to catch a star… but first he had to think of a plan…
Based on the book by international best-selling author Oliver Jeffers, How to Catch a Star is brand new Australian Chamber Orchestra Families production which will take you on a journey from awe and wonder, through perseverance to triumph.
In a stunning adaptation by Sandra Eldridge, Jeffers’ magical tale about reaching for dreams will be brought to life on stage through storytelling and exquisite new music by Elena Kats-Chernin performed by an ACO string quartet.
This enchanting performance will leave audiences of all ages filled with hope and optimism.
Post-Show Meet The Musicians Q&A
Audiences are advised that a 15 minute Q&A will take place directly after the show. This structured and interactive Q&A will enable audience members to learn more about the musical techniques used in the show.
Director's Note
Adapted from Oliver Jeffers’ beautiful story of a boy hoping, wishing, and waiting, How to Catch a Star is a sophisticated theatrical experience for young people with an extraordinary musical score tracking the emotional journey of a boy determined to bring a star into his life.
The wonder of the book is captured through the finely composed art of the music, an exceptional ACO string quartet, movement, dialogue, and simple puppetry by a multi-talented performer portraying the boy. This is a joyous piece of theatre for all the family, but especially those who still every night wish upon a star.
Sandra Eldridge, Writer & Director
For School Group bookings please email: education@thearthousewyong.com.au
*note: This event will take place in our Studio (directly opposite the café/bar). The Studio is General Admission unassigned seating. Please choose a seat from the seating bank upon arrival.
Cast & Creatives
CREATIVES
Based on the book by Oliver Jeffries
Adapted and Directed by Sandra Eldridge
Original Music by Elena Kats-Chernin
Production Design by Melanie Liertz
Lighting Design by Matt Cox
Movement Direction by Elle Evangelista
Photo Credits: Maria Boyadgis
CAST
The Boy – Will Bartolo
Violin 1 – Madeleine Jevons
Violin 2 – Rollin Zhao
Viola – Meagan Turner
Cello – Eve Silver
'The Australian Chamber Orchestra is uniformly high-octane, arresting and never ordinary.'
The Australian The Australian Chamber Orchestra lives and breathes music, making waves around the world for their explosive performances and brave interpretations. Steeped in history but always looking to the future, ACO programs embrace celebrated classics alongside new commissions, and adventurous cross-artform collaborations.
Led by Artistic Director Richard Tognetti since 1990, the ACO performs more than 100 concerts each year. Whether performing in Manhattan, New York, or Wollongong, NSW, the ACO is unwavering in their commitment to creating transformative musical experiences. The Orchestra regularly collaborates with artists and musicians who share their ideology, from instrumentalists, to vocalists, to cabaret performers, to visual artists and film makers.
The ACO applies this same commitment to making and performing work for young audiences, and since 2019 has been commissioning works specifically for children. How to Catch a Star is the third work in the series, following the success and critical acclaim of There’s A Sea in My Bedroom (2019), and Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge (2021, Winner - Best Production for Children, Sydney Theatre Awards). The fourth work, The Princess, the Pea (and The Brave Escapee) is in development in 2023.
Gallery
Reviews
The music was fabulous, the set was perfect, the script was terrific and the actor was marvellous. I couldn't speak more highly of the whole experience”
- (ACO Audience Member)
“I think it’s something we can all identify with: It’s about a boy looking for a friend. There’s a sense of wonder, of trying to achieve something big."
- (Elena Kats-Chernin)
“The wonder of the book is captured through the finely composed art of the music, an exceptional ACO string quartet, movement, dialogue, and simple puppetry by a multi-talented performer portraying the boy. This is a joyous piece of theatre for all the family, but especially those who still every night wish upon a star.”
- (Sandra Eldridge)
