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The Art House Presents
A Monkey Baa Theatre Company production
The Peasant Prince
Based on the book by Li Cunxin, Illustrated by Anne Spudvilas
Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
Monkey Baa is thrilled to announce the return of its award-winning production The Peasant Prince in 2024. The children’s version of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography, Mao’s Last Dancer, The Peasant Prince is an extraordinary production of a remarkable story – of a peasant boy turned dance giant. It will inspire and enthral young audiences.
“You have your secret dreams. Follow them. Make them come true.” - From The Peasant Prince by Li Cunxin
The Peasant Prince tells the remarkable true story of a 10-year-old peasant boy’s journey from impoverished rural China to the international dance scene. This is a story of courage, resilience and unwavering hope and is a true 20th century fairy tale.
“It’s a vivid piece of storytelling that is skillful, theatrical and inspiring. It was a loving and honest adaptation of Li’s treasured memoir."- Stage Whispers
For school group booking inquiries please email Education@thearthousewyong.com.au
The Peasant Prince is based on the book by Li Cunxin, with illustrations by Anne Spudvilas
CREATIVES
Playwright: Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
Director: Tim McGarry
Remount Director: Egan Sun-Bin
Production Designer: Michael Hankin
Composer: Daryl Wallis
Movement Director: Danielle Micich
Remount Movement Director: Lia Reutens
Lighting Designer: Sian James-Holland
Author and Script Consultant: Li Cunxin
Remount Lighting Designer: Matt Cox
Photography Credit: Clare Hawley
CAST
Agnes Choi
Jonathan Lim
Gerwin Widjaja
Alan Zhu
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Monkey Baa makes great theatre for young people and for over 26 years we have presented award-winning theatrical experiences that inspire and empower young people across Australia and internationally. We are one of Australia’s widest touring companies with 29 national tours to 135 regional and remote communities, 5 international tours and over 4000 performances reaching over 1.5 million young people.
We are an Australian theatre company empowering young people to shape their lives through inspiring, imaginative theatre and creative experiences. We create, present and tour performances powered by imagination, bringing eye-opening ideas and boundless fun.
Monkey Baa’s vision: a world where all young people are emboldened by creativity.
Monkey Baa’s mission: we empower young people to shape and navigate their lives through inspirational theatre and creative experiences.
“It’s a vivid piece of storytelling that is skillful, theatrical and inspiring. It was a loving and honest adaptation of Li’s treasured memoir.”
- Stage Whispers
"The Peasant Prince is vital, exuberant, aspirational, and inspirational."
- Australian Stage
"Monkey Baa Theatre Company has created another wonderful work for children."
- Broadway World
"My son was entranced and my daughter was mesmerised. I was drawn in by the magical telling of a powerful story told so simply and so well."
- Sydney Arts Guide
"Monkey Baa has created, yet again, a gem for children and adults alike."
- Theatre Now
MULTI AWARD-WINNING
Best Production for Children - 2016 Sydney Theatre Award
Tour of the year - 2017 Drovers Award
Most Outstanding Production for Children - 2016 Glug Award