Mao’s Last Dancer now children’s stage show
Just in time for the school holidays, The Peasant Prince comes to Brisbane. Produced by the award-winning theatre company for young people, Monkey Baa, this new Australian play is based on artistic director of Queensland Ballet Li Cunxin's memoir, Mao’s Last Dancers
Following the international success of this Li Cunxin wrote The Peasant Prince, a children’s picture book based on his memoirs.
In close development with Li, The Peasant Prince was adapted and written by Monkey Baa Creative Directors, Eva Di Cesare, Sandra Eldridge and Tim McGarry, who also provide direction.
Aimed at ages six and over, the play begins as a young Li Cunxin is taken from his small rural village in northern China to study at an elite dance academy in Beijing. Although the training is gruelling, he is inspired by dreams of a better life for both him and his family. When a famous ballet master from the USA visits the academy, his life is changed forever.
“It’s always my hope that my life experiences inspire young people to follow their dreams and to take advantage of the boundless opportunities in their lives,” said Li. “I think my story proves that with hard work, dedication and determination, anything is possible. You can be successful in anything, if you are willing to go that extra mile.”
The show stars John Gomez Goodway, Jenevieve Chang, Jonathan Chan and Edric Hong.
Exploring themes of belonging, motivation, loneliness and hope, The Peasant Prince is designed to inspire young people to overcome fears and follow their dreams.
The Peasant Prince by Monkey Baa Theatre Company, QUT Gardens Theatre, 2 George Street, Brisbane (next to City Botanic Gardens). Wednesday 6 July, 6 pm, Thursday 7 July, 10:30 am & 1 pm , Friday 8 July, 1 pm , Saturday 9 July, 1 pm
Bookings: gardenstheatre.qut.edu.au or phone 07 3138 4455
Cost: Standard $28 | Family $95 (2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children)
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