Monkey Baa to Bring THE PEASANT PRINCE to Glen Street Theatre This Month

In the last week of April, the award-winning theatre company for young people, Monkey Baa, will be returning to Glen Street Theatre with a new Australian play based on the incredible story of Mao's Last Dancer.

Following the international success of his autobiography, Mao's Last Dancer, Li Cunxin authored 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 provides 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 (Oneness: Voice Without Form, His Mother's Voice), Jenevieve Chang (Club Shanghai, Stories Then and Now), Jonathan Chan (The Secret Island, Turnadot Reimagined) and Edric Hong (Winter Retreat, A Play Like This).

Exploring themes of belonging, motivation, loneliness and hope, THE PEASANT PRINCE will inspire young people to overcome fears and follow their dreams.

IF YOU GO:

THE PEASANT PRINCE

Based on the book by Li Cunxin

Producer: Monkey Baa Theatre Company

Adapted by: Eva Di Cesare, Sandra Eldridge & Tim McGarry

Directed by: Tim McGarry

Cast: John Gomez Goodway, Jenevieve Chang, Jonathan Chan & Edric Hong

Movement Director: Danielle Micich

Designer: Michael Hankin

Lighting Designer: Sian James-Holland

Composer: Daryl Wallis

Dramaturge: Camilla Ah Kin

Script Consultant: Li Cunxin

SEASON DETAILS:

Venue: Glen Street Theatre, corner Glen Street and Blackbutts Road, Belrose

Performance Dates: 27-30 April 2016

Performance Times: Wed-Fri 10:30am & 1pm; Sat 10am & 12pm

Running Time: 55 minutes, no interval

Ticket Prices: All tickets $21 each or $75 for a family pass (5 tickets). Transaction charges may apply.

Patron's Advice: Ideal for 6-12 year olds. This performance features smoke and fog effects.
Bookings: www.glenstreet.com.au or 9975 1455

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