Glen Street Theatre is thrilled to present Monkey Baa Theatre Company’s award-winning stage adaptation of Josephine Wants to Dance – 14 to 19 March.
Based on the beloved book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley, Josephine Wants to Dance first leapt onto the stage in 2018, winning Best Production for Children at the Sydney Theatre Awards. Since then, it has captivated thousands of young audiences, taking them on a joyous journey of determination and self-belief.
Josephine is a kangaroo who loves to dance. Her little brother, Joey, insists that kangaroos don’t dance—they hop. But Josephine doesn’t give up. She twirls, leaps, and pirouettes through the Australian bush. When a ballet company arrives in Shaggy Gully, Josephine dreams of joining them. Then, disaster strikes. The prima ballerina twists her ankle, and the understudy is sidelined. Can Josephine step in and save the show?
Featuring original music, ballet, hip-hop and… a dancing kangaroo, this hilarious and heartwarming musical is a must-see for the whole family.
Monkey Baa has assembled an outstanding creative team to bring Josephine’s world to life, including Director, Jonathan Biggins (Pete the Sheep, The Wharf Revue); Composer, Phil Scott (Pete the Sheep, The Wharf Revue); Choreographer, Tim Harbour (formerly of The Australian Ballet); Set & Costume Designer, James Browne (The Very Hungry Caterpillar) and Lighting Designer, Emma Lockhart‐Wilson (Where the Streets Had a Name).
“The production brings Australian animals to life in the most imaginative way possible,” Director Jonathan Biggins said. “Josephine herself was inspired by a real kangaroo named Fuschia, who lived near Jackie French’s home in the bush.”
Artistic Director and Co-writer Eva Di Cesare added, “Josephine is full of curiosity and perseverance—qualities we adore. We can’t wait to share her story with audiences once again.”
Don’t miss Josephine Wants to Dance at Glen Street Theatre on 14 – 19 March.
REVIEWS
**** “A complete delight.” - Jo Litson, Daily Telegraph
"If you have children to take, then, take them. If you don't, still go. Don't be shy. Just, go, go, go.” - Kevin Jackson Theatre Diaries
"Wonderfully whimsical and utterly inspiring... a must see for anyone with a sense of wonder.” – Jade Kops, Broadway World
CREATIVE TEAM
Adaptors Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
Director Jonathan Biggins
Composer/Lyricist Phil Scott
Choreographer Tim Harbour
Set & Costume Designer James Browne
Lighting Designer Emma Lockhart-Wilson
Sound Designer David Bergman
Musical Director Michael Tyack
Remount Lighting Designer Veronique Benett
Costume Cutter Marianne Close
Cast Lily Baulderstone, Nina Carmen, Hannah Gwatkin, Callum Slater, Georgia Unsworth (understudy)
SEASON DETAILS
VENUE: Glen Street Theatre
DATES: 14 – 19 March
PRICES: Member: $35, All Tickets: $40, Family Pass (4): $150
BOOKINGS: 9470 5913 or www.glenstreet.com.au
RUNNING TIME: 50 minutes (no interval)
AGE GROUP: 4-9 and their families
CONTENT WARNING: Theatrical haze
Watch the trailer HERE
View Production Photography HERE
For more information, contact:
Sonia Dodd, Producer
Monkey Baa Theatre Company
sonia@monkeybaa.com.au | (02) 8624 9341
Monkey Baa Theatre Company
Monkey Baa Theatre Company is a national Australian theatre company dedicated to creating productions for young audiences aged 3–15 years. For over 27 years, it has empowered young people through inspirational live creative experiences. From bustling cities to the smallest towns, its productions are full of heart, humour, and a whole lot of fun.
Bringing diverse Australian stories to the stage, Monkey Baa respects young audiences as the theatre-goers of today. Each production is a high-quality experience where young people can see themselves reflected in the stories being told.
For many, it is their first time at the theatre—a moment that is made unforgettable.
Too many young people miss out on the benefits of live theatre. Without these experiences, they lose a vital connection to stories that spark imagination, improve mental health, enhance learning, and help them make sense of the world.
Touring to over 50 communities across Australia, Monkey Baa ensures theatre is accessible to all young people. Through strong partnerships, it provides free tickets and transport for those who need them most. Workshops and programs extend the impact, helping young people develop communication skills, emotional intelligence, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.