Little princes and princesses across the Coast are in for a treat when The Peasant Prince opens at The Art House Wyong.
“You have your secret dreams. Follow them. Make them come true.”
– From The Peasant Prince by Li Cunxin
The children’s version of the international best-selling autobiography turned feature film, Mao’s Last Dancer, this extraordinary stage-play about a peasant boy who overcomes all odds to become one of the world’s most cherished dancers, will captivate and inspire audiences young and old. Parents and grandparents, if you loved Mao’s Last Dancer, don’t miss this rare chance to share this magical story with your children.
Exploring themes of family, belonging, resilience and hope, the play centres around 10-year-old Li Cunxin. Plucked from poverty to attend the most prestigious ballet academy in China, Li leaves behind everything he knows and loves for a fleeting chance at a better life.
Feeling lost and alone, the story follows Li through years of gruelling training, trials and tribulations. Determined to make his dream come true and to make a better life for himself and the people he loves, through hard work and dedication, an adult Li finally steps onto the world stage – from peasant to prince. Going onto lead an illustrious dance career, including time as Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet, Li now calls Australia home.
Charming and true, this modern-day fairy tale is a revival of the critically acclaimed 2016 production from Monkey Baa Theatre Company (Possum Magic, Edward The Emu) and is a moving and faithful (albeit simplified) homage to Li Cunxin’s treasured memoir, as well as the picture book of the same name, which won the Australian Publishers Association’s Book of the Year for Younger Children.
Perfect for families with kids aged 10 and under, history buffs and literature lovers, The Peasant Prince pliés into The Art House from September 19-20, with a dedicated school groups session and an after school special for families. Tickets are on-sale now.
“The Peasant Prince is a little gem of stage craft, a funny, engaging entertainment that has the special affect that live theatre can conjure over the special effects of cookie cutter cinema confection.”
– Richard Cotter for Australian Stage
“The Peasant Prince is a vivid piece of storytelling that is skilful, theatrical, and inspiring. It was a loving and honest adaptation.”
–Stage Whispers
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
Performance Times: Thursday September 19th 6PM
& Friday September 20th 10AM*
Duration: 60 minutes, no interval
Warning: Contains simulated violence, themes of racism
Recommended for ages 7-12
For accessible bookings please contact the Box Office
*The 10am performance is a school groups performance with limited general public availability. The school groups performance includes a 10-minute post show Q&A with the artists.
Tickets: Adult: $25.00 | Encore Member: $20.00 | Children Under 12: $20.00
Family of 4 (2A, 2C or 1A, 3C): $75.00 | School Groups: $15.00*
*School Groups must book through The Art House Box Office