Little princes and princesses across the Central Coast are in for a treat when The Peasant Prince opens at The Art House Wyong on September 19 and 20.
The children’s version of the international best-selling autobiography turned feature film, Mao’s Last Dancer, this extraordinary stage play about a peasant boy who overcomes all odds to become one of the world’s most cherished dancers, will captivate and inspire audiences young and old.
Parents and grandparents, if you loved Mao’s Last Dancer, don’t miss this rare chance to share this magical story with your children.
Exploring themes of family, belonging, resilience and hope, the play centres on 10-year-old Li Cunxin.
Plucked from poverty to attend the most prestigious ballet academy in China, Li leaves behind everything he knows and loves for a fleeting chance at a better life.
Feeling lost and alone, the story follows Li through years of gruelling training, trials and tribulations.
Determined to make his dream come true and to make a better life for himself and the people he loves, through hard work and dedication, an adult Li finally steps onto the world stage – from peasant to prince.
Going on to lead an illustrious dance career, including time as Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet, Li now calls Australia home.
Charming and true, this modern-day fairy tale is a revival of the critically acclaimed 2016 production from Monkey Baa Theatre Company – Possum Magic, Edward the Emu – and is a moving and faithful, albeit simplified, homage to Li Cunxin’s treasured memoir, as well as the picture book of the same name, which won the Australian Publishers Association’s Book of the Year for Younger Children.
The Peasant Prince is perfect for families with children aged 10 and under, history buffs and literature lovers, with dedicated school group sessions and an after-school special for families.
Performance times are Thursday, September 19, 6pm, and Friday, September 20 at 10am.