Geelong Arts Centre continues to dazzle

Edward The Emu will be showing in late July thanks to the Monkey Baa Theatre Company. (Supplied)

Geelong Arts Centre’s Family Magic program is returning this year with a diverse range of fantastic family-friendly productions.

Made up of a variety of dynamic, engaging, accessible performances, the Family Magic program is designed to captivate, inspire and entertain kids under 12, as well as their parents, siblings, grandparents and carers.

The immersive and multi-sensory performance Whoosh! has two shows running on Saturday June 4, where children board a spaceship and copilot an intergalactic adventure.

Edward the Emu has three shows running from Friday July 29 to Saturday July 30, based on the much-loved books by Sheena Knowles and Rod Clement. The 12pm show on Saturday July 30 is a relaxed performance – Specialised Relaxed Performances welcome audiences with autism, sensory sensitivities, learning disabilities or dementia, as well as those with anxiety or who have experienced trauma.

The atmosphere of these performances is non-judgemental and noisy enthusiasm is embraced.

Audience members are also welcome to bring headphones to reduce noise if they wish. With dimmed lights, open auditorium doors and moderated technical elements such as sound effects and strong lighting.

Lastly, There’s a Sea In My Bedroom introduces children to live classical music featuring musicians from the Australian Chamber Orchestra, with the show running on Tuesday August 23.

Having started in March and running through to August 23, the Family Magic Program is proudly supported by principal partner Creative Victoria, major artistic partner Deakin University and program partner Geelong Connected Communities.

For many children in the G21 region, the Family Magic program provides their first theatrical experiences. The Centre takes great pride in helping families spark a love for the arts, introducing young people to a world of limitless possibilities.

“Geelong Arts Centre takes immense pride in providing young people with a window into the world of the arts and making world-class arts experiences accessible to the many diverse families across our region,” says Joel McGuiness, Geelong Arts Centre CEO and Creative Director.

The enticing 2022 program consists of a variety of musical and theatrical experiences, literary favourites coming to life, and for the very first time, an immersive performance specially designed for children with a broad range of access needs.

“We are delighted to welcome children and families of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to engage with, and be inspired by, creativity across so many artforms,” says Kelly Clifford, Geelong Arts Centre Senior Producer – Families, Youth and Creative Learning.

“The Family Magic program offers immersive, imaginative and creative experiences that blur the boundaries between actor and audience while creating magical moments that spark joy and laughter.”

Ticket prices for shows to the Geelong Arts Centre’s Family Magic program are $32 for adults, $22 for children and $25 for groups of six or more.

For full program details and to make a booking, visit www.geelongartscentre.org.au/family-magic-2022 or phone 1300 251 200 between 10am – 3pm, Monday – Friday.

Don’t miss out on any upcoming show announcements by signing up to Geelong Arts Centre’s What’s On newsletter. Subscribe at www.geelongartscentre.org.au.