Children’s favourite picture book to be brought to life on stage

Published on 02 June 2025

Australia’s premier theatre company for young audiences, Monkey Baa, returns to the Pilbeam Theatre in June with their award-winning adaptation of Josephine Wants to Dance.

Based on the beloved book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley, Josephine Wants to Dance first leapt onto the stage in 2018, winning Best Production for Children at the Sydney Theatre Awards. Since then, it has captivated thousands of young audiences, taking them on a journey of determination and self-belief.

Josephine is a kangaroo who loves to dance. Her little brother, Joey, insists that kangaroos don’t dance—they hop. But Josephine doesn’t give up. She twirls, leaps, and pirouettes through the Australian bush. When a ballet company arrives in Shaggy Gully, Josephine dreams of joining them. Then, disaster strikes. The prima ballerina twists her ankle, and the understudy is sidelined. Can Josephine step in and save the show?

Featuring original music, ballet, hip-hop and…a dancing kangaroo, this hilarious and heartwarming musical is a must-see for the whole family.

Monkey Baa has assembled an outstanding creative team to bring Josephine’s world to life, including Director, Jonathan Biggins (Pete the Sheep, The Wharf Revue); Composer, Phil Scott (Pete the Sheep, The Wharf Revue); Choreographer, Tim

Harbour (formerly of The Australian Ballet); Set & Costume Designer, James Browne (The Very Hungry Caterpillar) and Lighting Designer, Emma Lockhart‐Wilson (Where the Streets Had a Name).

“The production brings Australian animals to life in the most imaginative way possible,” Director Jonathan Biggins said.

“Josephine herself was inspired by a real kangaroo named Fuschia, who lived near Jackie French’s home in the bush.”

Artistic Director and Co-writer Eva Di Cesare added “Josephine is full of curiosity and perseverance—qualities we adore. We can’t wait to share her story with audiences once again.”

Monkey Baa Theatre Company’s Josephine Wants to Dance is presented by Rockhampton Regional Council and is part of the 2025 See It Live Theatre Season.

It will be performed at the Pilbeam Theatre on Tuesday 24 June at 6pm and Wednesday 25 June at 10am and 12 midday. Tickets are on sale now from the Pilbeam Theatre Box Office and online at www.seeitlive.com.au

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