One of Australia’s most cherished children’s books is making the leap from page to stage, with Where is the Green Sheep? set to delight young audiences at Arts Centre Melbourne’s Playhouse this September.
Based on the bestselling picture book by Judy Horacek and Mem Fox, the colourful theatrical adaptation will run from 22 to 26 September 2026 as part of a major national tour that will visit 80 venues over two years.
The production has its roots in Melbourne, growing from an Arts Centre Melbourne creative development and a collaboration between Monkey Baa Theatre Company, Horacek and the venue’s programming team. Directed by Eva Di Cesare, the show combines puppetry, animation and imaginative storytelling to bring the book’s much-loved characters to life.
Families will join three farmers on a playful search for the elusive green sheep, meeting a flock of memorable characters along the way, including Blue Sheep, Red Sheep, Bath Sheep and Bed Sheep.
Judy Horacek, who co-created the original book and was involved in the stage adaptation, said the journey from page to performance had been a rewarding one.
“From the first tiny green sheep I drew years ago, to making the book with Mem with its beloved flock of quirky sheep, to me being part of the team bringing the book to the stage, has been an incredible experience. We’ve created a play that is very true to the book, but at the same time full of wonderful new surprises – it’s impossible not to adore it!”
She also praised puppet maker Kay Yasugu’s contribution, saying, “It’s not just about the puppet looking cute, it is about what it has to do.”
Designed for children aged one to six and their families, the 45-minute production also incorporates narration created with students from Bankstown West Public School, ensuring young voices are woven throughout the experience.
Where is the Green Sheep? runs from 22 to 26 September 2026 at the Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne. For tickets and more information, visit https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au.
