Beetle

See the magic of the Australian bush spring to life on stage this National Science Week!

A nostalgic and heartwarming tale of wonder and hope – Beetle is a reminder of the delicate balance of the natural works and the power of small voices to make change.

Join Sally and her backyard friend as they encounter larger than life beetles, stick insects and bush critters on their quest to discover the now elusive Christmas Beetle.

A must-see feast for the senses featuring:

• Legs On The Wall’s signature mix of breathtaking physical storytelling;
• Narration by Wiradjuri woman and award-winning artist Vicki van Hout;
• Stunning animations of original artworks by beloved children’s author and illustrator Freya Blackwood (recently shortlisted for the 2025 Children’s Book Council of Australia Awards for picture books Afloat and The Garden of Broken Things);
• Giant puppets and spell-binding visual effects;
• Incredible scenic art by Erth Visual & Physical Inc. (ARC, Dinosaur Petting Zoo) and Legs on The Wall.

Make the most of your experience with our bonus activities:

• Engage with the cast at the end of the show and take home native seeds to plant and make a positive impact on the environment;
• Get up close with the tiny wonders of nature – Join Penrith City Council’s Sustainability team in The Joan’s Foyer before or after the show on Saturday to discover the fascinating world of bugs through real microscopes! (Saturday Only);
• Visit the digital exhibition of Freya Blackwood’s quintessential Australian illustrations;
• Post-show Q&A with the cast (Friday matinee);
• Take a bug-inspired photo at our selfie station;
• Post-show cast surprise! (Saturday Only).