By Anastasia Vento
This year, DreamBIG Children’s Festival celebrated its 50th anniversary with the theme, ‘I was, I am, I will be.’ Adelaide was treated to numerous events, shows, workshops and installations over two exciting weekends, encouraging families to be immersed and entertained. Adelaide Festival Centre was home to DreamBIG, the perfect location for imaginations to run wild (and lots of fun to be had!)
The Space Theatre hosted The Princess, The Pea (and The Brave Escapee). You may be familiar with the fairy tale The Princess and the Pea, and if so, this clever re-imagining will not disappoint.
The story was magically told by narrator Micaela Ellis through live performance, puppetry and music by the talented Australian Chamber Orchestra string quartet. The audience was taken on a whirlwind adventure as the princess finally embarked on her escape. As we travelled to the ocean, we heard the crashing of waves and the calls of seagulls. It felt so real (and surreal) as though we were really there!
Micaela expertly used shadow puppetry to further spark curiosity and imagination – underwater, the princess swam past fish, starfish, a treasure box, skeleton and a shark!
The princess’ journey was no easy feat. We experienced her highs and lows as we shared her adventure.
The performance was packed with stunning music, narration, lighting, drama and humour. It captivated the audience from beginning to end, especially the kiddos who loved the grand turtle who played a very important part in the tale.
DreamBIG Children’s Festival’s 2025 season has ended.
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