The Little Prince is a classic story that encourages us to stop, look past the hustle and bustle, and rediscover a world of wonder and heart. Now, Spare Parts Puppet Theatre brings this timeless tale to life in a magical school holiday season from April 12 to 26 at the Ellie Eaton Theatre, Claremont Showground.
First published 80 years ago and translated into more than 250 languages, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s masterful tale of adventure, friendship, and imagination has captivated audiences for generations.
Associate Director of Spare Parts, Michael Barlow, reflects on its enduring power, describing it as a story about growing up – about how we learn from our friends, and our ‘not friends’ – and how we hold onto our childhood goodness as we grow older and wiser to the ways of the world.
“It’s an antidote to cynicism, to our modern obsessions with speed and glamour and status,” he said. “It is about the heart, the importance of loving, and our need to care for each other. The Little Prince gently wraps up its big ideas in a funny and playful adventure story that will stimulate young minds and stir the hearts of anyone who was once young.”
Adapted for the stage by Simon Clarke, The Little Prince showcases Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s finest artistry. Master puppet maker Jiri Zmitko’s transformative set design features a large scale airplane and some of the company’s most beautiful handcarved puppets brought to life by highly experienced performer Shane Adamczak (Miss Lily’s Fabulous Feather Boa, Pillow Fight) and newcomer Louis Spencer, stepping into the spotlight after understudying roles in the company’s acclaimed productions of The Velveteen Rabbit and Show Day.
Lighting designer, Karen Cook’s stunning canopy of stars and composer, Lee Buddle’s evocative musical score, performed by acclaimed pianist Ross Bolleter, add a dreamlike and immersive dimension to the unfolding adventure.
With a family-friendly runtime of 50 minutes, the show is perfect for audiences aged five and above. Older children, teens, and adults will also be drawn into its richly layered narrative, making it an unforgettable school holiday experience.
Performances run Monday to Saturday from April 12 to 26 at the Ellie Eaton Theatre, Claremont Showground (Gate 1), with two shows daily at 10am and 1pm (excluding Good Friday).
BOOK YOUR TICKETS
Rediscover wonder with this heartwarming adventure – a Spare Parts classic that will ignite young imaginations and remind us all to look up at the stars. Make 2025 your Year of Adventure with The Little Prince!
Tickets for The Little Prince are available here.
All media enquiries to
John Michael Swinbank 0414 743 418 media@sppt.com.au
PRODUCTION CREDITS:
Performers: Shane Adamczak, Louis Spencer
Director: Michael Barlow
Adapting Writer: Simon Clarke
Designer, Set & Puppet Maker: Jiri (Jirka) Zmitko
Assistant Maker: Kipling Smith
Composer: Lee Buddle
Musicians: Ross Bolleter (piano), Mark Storen (vocals)
Lighting Designer: Karen Cook
Production Manager: Holland Brooks