BEETLE
a striking show which takes young viewers on an immersive journey into nature by fusing puppetry, physical theatre, circus, video projection, and set and costume design with seamless imagination. ★★★★ The Scotsman
even the smallest voices matter
An instant Australian classic, Beetle tells the story of a child who finds a new friend in her backyard; together they embark on an adventure to search for 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.
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.
If you’re inspired by Beetle to help care for nature, here’s some information on things you can do from our friends at Greening Australia.
WORLD PREMIERE
29 June to 1 July 2023
C2 - 41 Boundary Street South Townsville
North Australian Festival of Arts | NAFA
Commissioned by the North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA) and The Art House — Wyong
BEETLE
by Legs On The Wall
Concept by Joshua Thomson
Created and Directed by Kate Walder & Joshua Thomson
Illustrations by Freya Blackwood
Featuring Christy Tran, Lloyd Allison-Young and Olivia Hadley
with Vicki Van Hout as the voice of the tree
Video Design by Susie Henderson
Sound Design by Luke Smiles
Composition by Jessica Dunn
Lighting Design by Gareth Simmonds
Costumes designed and created by Melanie Gillbank
Scenic Art by ERTH incorporating recycled set pieces from prior Legs productions
Production Manager - Gareth Simmonds
Stage Manager - Daniel Story
Performers in development: William Bartolo and Jana Castillo
For Legs On The Wall:
Project Coordinator - Stephanie Tatzenko
Operations Manager - Byron Cleasby
Producer - Lauren Eisinger
General Manager - James Beach