Adopt A Puppet

African performer Dorinda Hafner told a series of engaging folk stories from her culture that dealt with the history, wisdom, foolishness, bravery, love and fragility of people. Each story was brought to life with puppets designed by Jan Novak and live drums played by Dorinda. The show was an entertaining way of learning about different cultures and traditions. Africa – Tales from a Drum was co-devised by Noriko Nishimoto, Dorinda Hafner and Peter L. Wilson, and was directed by Peter L. Wilson and Noriko Nishimoto.

A magical show inspired by Stravinsky’s ballet Petrushka. Zeno, the evil magician torments his three puppets by casting a terrible spell on them. Mirrors, swords and flowers come to life as the magic takes its effect. This puppet has been hand carved by Jiri Zmitko and combines marionette, bunraku and black theatre styles of operation. Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Zoe Atkinson, Spellbound is a magical adventure of love, friendship, and how the power of imagination can transform an individual.

Ballerina Anna, belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ that puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

Bear is the marionette featured in Spare Parts Puppet Theatre's work, Nobody Owns the Moon, adapted from the book by Tohby Riddle. Bear is manipulated by Yvan Karlsson, the Street Performer from the show and was designed by Leon Hendroff. Nobody Owns the Moon makes you think twice about the place you live, and encourages you to stop and say hello to your neighbour. Directed by Michael Barlow, Designed by Leon Hendroff.

A magical show inspired by Stravinsky’s ballet Petrushka. Zeno, the evil magician torments his three puppets by casting a terrible spell on them. Mirrors, swords and flowers come to life as the magic takes its effect. This puppet has been hand carved by Jiri Zmitko and combines marionette, bunraku and black theatre styles of operation. Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Zoe Atkinson, Spellbound is a magical adventure of love, friendship, and how the power of imagination can transform an individual.

Blueback, adapted by Peta Murray from the book by Tim Winton was first performed with Terrapin Puppet Theatre in Tasmania. Since 1995, Spare Parts Puppet Theatre have been performing this award winning production. Blueback is an underwater menagerie of exquisite puppetry and an extraordinary celebration of the Western Australian coastline from one of WA’s most beloved authors. Blueback was designed by Hanna Parssinen, constructed by Greg Methe and the show was directed by Philip Mitchell.

Bobek- Peasant Man, belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ that puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

Hand carved by Jiri Zmitko 2008

Rules of Summer is an immersive, interactive, and multi-sensory puppetry work following the journey of two boys who experience the emotional journey of life, the unwritten rules of friendship, and a list of mysterious rules…

Adapted from the award-winning book by Shaun Tan.

Rules of Summer is an immersive, interactive, and multi-sensory puppetry work following the journey of two boys who experience the emotional journey of life, the unwritten rules of friendship, and a list of mysterious rules…

Based on the book by Jenny Wagner, The Bunyip of Berkeley’s Creek is an evocative story of one creature’s journey along the riverbank to discover what he looks like. Directed by Noriko Nishimoto and designed by Zoe Atkinson. Bunyip has been one of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s most iconic shows.

Based on the book by Paul Morgan, Cat Balloon is the story of a cat and his furry friends who live in the Land of Dreams. In this Dream Land, cats simply lazy under the trees, drink moonbeam milk and sweet honey tea. Cat Balloon thought it possible to fly like the moon. After many unsuccessful attempts, Cat Balloon is forced to take to the sea in a large silver spoon to continue his search for the secret of the moon. This show was directed by Noriko Nishimoto and designed by Jane Davies.

Based on Banjo Paterson’s classic poem, this was The Man from Snowy River as you’ve never imagined it! Set in a supermarket, our check-out hero Shane spends his days working hard but dreaming of a life of adventure. One day his big chance arrives – as Clancy the bull and Snowy the white mare turn the supermarket aisle into the side of the mountain and Shane successfully tames the wild brumby trolley! Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Jiri Zmitko.

Creamy the Cat stars in the moving story Hachiko about loyalty and resilience. Hachiko celebrates the remarkable joy an animal can bring to our lives. Directed Philip Mitchell and designed by Matt McVeigh.

Cuddle Pie, was made by two members of the Shanghai Puppet Theatre whilst on an artist exchange program, in 1990. He was made for a show that was to be about the life of writer and illustrator May Gibbs, who grew up in Western Australia. The script for the play was started by Mary Hutchinson but never completed because of copyright restrictions with the main characters, Snuggle Pot and Cuddle Pie. What a shame because the puppets are just gorgeous!

This is the story of a young girl called Alex who is spending a day at her Granny’s house. Granny is plotting a big surprise for her Granddaughter but it won’t be ready until the sun goes down and the stars come out. As night draws near strange voices, crazy chickens and a magic book of clues all point to one thing... Is granny an alien? Enid the Chook is one of Granny’s favourite friends. The show was directed by Michael Barlow and designed by Tish Oldham.

Based on the classic children’s story by Margery Williams, The Velveteen Rabbit is the story of a young boy’s much-cherished toy. To his family, it is just a soft toy amongst many, but to the boy, the rabbit is much more. With a wise horse, bossy bulldozers, a flying fairy and a toy box full of crazy, colourful, walking, talking toys, is it just imagination or can the bond of love make something real? Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Zoe Atkinson. The Velveteen Rabbit has been one of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s most successful shows, touring nationally and selling out at the Sydney Opera House.

Written by award-winning playwright, Peta Murray and directed by Philip Mitchell, On Our Beach uses puppetry, interactivity and immersion to explore ideas of identity, belonging, and our connection to others and to the land we all live on. In the show, the audience is taken on a journey through the world of a fantastical beach to discover what it is that unites us, and brings us together, that transcends flags and clothes or the colour of our skin. Designed by Cecile Williams with music by Lee Buddle, On Our Beach showcased the performing talents of Rebecca Bradley, Shona Mae, and singer-songwriter, Tani Walker.

The Little Prince leaves his tiny planet and begins an adventure that reveals there are things that can only be discovered with the heart. For more than 70 years this timeless story has brought joy to adults and children alike with its beautiful insights and humour. Designed and constructed by Jiri Zmitko and directed by Michael Barlow.

Kullener was one of the first shows ever performed by Spare Parts Puppet Theatre and told a story about the Tasmanian Tiger, written by John Lonie. Frank is a marsupial mouse whose original name was Lena. The show was directed by, Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s founding Artistic Director, Peter L. Wilson and designed by Beverly Campbell-Jackson.

A moving story about loyalty and resilience, Hachiko celebrates the remarkable joy an animal can bring to our lives. Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Matt McVeigh.

The show tackles the age-old dilemma – does fast and furious or slow and steady win the race? Updated to a fantasy world of toy invention with a crazy gurgling think tank that brings vacuum cleaners, mops and brushes to life, Hare Brain tells the tale of Harry and Tolouse who are in a slapstick race against time to find a perfect story to fit the perfect toy. Directed by Philip Mitchell and puppets designed by Cecile Williams.

From her window high above the city, Jami dreamt of making friends with animals, but Mum and Dad wouldn't let her have a pet in the apartment. While the rest of the city sleeps, Jamie gets a visit from The Night Zoo. Meerkat and Elephant, Orangutan and Penguin, Thorny Devil and Giraffe... It's going to be a jungle up there! Written and directed by Michael Barlow and Designed by Iona McAuley

Jester, belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ that puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

Hand carved by Jiri Zmitko 2008, Katrina – Peasant Woman, belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ that puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

African performer Dorinda Hafner told a series of engaging folk stories from her culture that dealt with the history, wisdom, foolishness, bravery, love and fragility of people. Each story was brought to life with puppets designed by Jan Novak and live drums played by Dorinda. The show was an entertaining way of learning about different cultures and traditions. Africa – Tales from a Drum was co-devised by Noriko Nishimoto, Dorinda Hafner and Peter L. Wilson, and was directed by Peter L. Wilson and Noriko Nishimoto.

This show based on the short story by Oscar Wilde is about a little swallow who befriends the statue of the Happy Prince. Together, they help save the poor as the Happy Prince gives the swallow jewels and gold from his statue to take to people who are struggling to survive. The little match girl has lost her matches and will be scolded by her father is she does not bring home any money, so the swallow gives her a ruby from the statue. It is a tale of true friendship and the happiness that comes from helping others. This production was directed by Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s founding Artistic Director Peter L. Wilson and designed by Alan Murphy.

Hand carved by puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko, Mermaid Hevatica belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

Hand carved by puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko, Merman Triton belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

Miss Lily’s Fabulous Feather Boa is a joyous celebration of courage, honesty and pride. Designed by Iona McAuley and directed by Michael Barlow.

Nijinsky, belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ that puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

A magical show inspired by Stravinsky’s ballet Petrushka. Zeno, the evil magician torments his three puppets by casting a terrible spell on them. Mirrors, swords and flowers come to life as the magic takes its effect. This puppet has been hand carved by Jiri Zmitko and combines marionette, bunraku and black theatre styles of operation. Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Zoe Atkinson, Spellbound is a magical adventure of love, friendship, and how the power of imagination can transform an individual.

Miss Lily’s Fabulous Feather Boa is a joyous celebration of courage, honesty and pride. Designed by Iona McAuley and directed by Michael Barlow.

The creation of this show was the result of a Cultural Exchange Program with the Peoples Republic of China. The director and puppet maker from the Shanghai Puppet Troupe worked with Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s founding Artistic Director Peter L. Wilson and designer Mark Thompson to create The Adventures of the Monkey King. (also known as Monkey Magic). Shanghai Puppet Troupe worked with Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s founding Artistic Director Peter L. Wilson and designer Mark Thompson

Hand carved by Jiri Zmitko 2008 Queen Lida, belongs to a set of puppets made exclusively for an exhibition titled ‘Wood be Good’ that puppet maker and designer Jiri Zmitko presented as part of the UNIMA 2008 :: International Puppetry Festival, Conference and Congress, held in Perth 2008.

Rules of Summer is an immersive, interactive, and multi-sensory puppetry work following the journey of two boys who experience the emotional journey of life, the unwritten rules of friendship, and a list of mysterious rules…

Adapted from the award-winning book by Shaun Tan

Created in 1986 by Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s founding Artistic Director, Peter L. Wilson, The Pied Piper was based on the classic poem by Robert Browning. The audience was delighted as the Piper mesmerized 1000 rats and the successful production toured nationally and internationally. Since then, these cheeky rats designed by Beverley Campbell-Jackson have entertained many children in puppetry workshops.

Based on Tim Winton’s book, The Deep is about a little girl called Alice whose fear of the ocean is conquered through an out of the blue swim with a friendly dolphin. Sharing her adventure is her belly flopping mum and dad, bombie obsessed brothers and a puppet cast of beautiful fish, fabulous octopus, wacky crabs and an over excitable Ruffy the Dog. Directed by Noriko Nishimoto and designed by Cecile Williams. The Deep is all about forgetting to be scared.

Rufus has travelled all around Australia performing in The Night Zoo with Jamie and all the other animals. Directed by Michael Barlow and designed by Iona McAuley.

Once a Jolly Swagman was a wonderful musical interpretation of Banjo Paterson’s best known song ‘Waltzing Matilda’. The lyrics were brought to life with such characters as the Coolibah Tree, the Trooper and his Wife, an old Gold Prospector and a Sheep that always dreamed of being a swaggie! The show was directed by, Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s founding Artistic Director, Peter L. Wilson.

Rules of Summer is an immersive, interactive, and multi-sensory puppetry work following the journey of two boys who experience the emotional journey of life, the unwritten rules of friendship, and a list of mysterious rules…

Adapted from the award-winning book by Shaun Tan

Based on Banjo Paterson’s classic poem, this was The Man from Snowy River as you’ve never imagined it! Set in a supermarket, our check-out hero Shane spends his days working hard but dreaming of a life of adventure. One day his big chance arrives – as Clancy the bull and Snowy the white mare turn the supermarket aisle into the side of the mountain and Shane successfully tames the wild brumby trolley! Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Jiri Zmitko

Snuggle Pot, was made by two members of the Shanghai Puppet Theatre whilst on an artist exchange program, in 1990. He was made for a show that was to be about the life of writer and illustrator May Gibbs, who grew up in Western Australia. The script for the play was started by Mary Hutchinson but never completed because of copyright restrictions with the main characters, Snuggle Pot and Cuddle Pie. What a shame because the puppets are just gorgeous!

The Little Prince leaves his tiny planet and begins an adventure that reveals there are things that can only be discovered with the heart. For more than 70 years this timeless story has brought joy to adults and children alike with its beautiful insights and humour. Designed and constructed by Jiri Zmitko and directed by Michael Barlow.

The show tackles the age-old dilemma – does fast and furious or slow and steady win the race? Updated to a fantasy world of toy invention with a crazy gurgling think tank that brings vacuum cleaners, mops and brushes to life, Hare Brain tells the tale of Harry and Toulouse who are in a slapstick race against time to find a perfect story to fit the perfect toy. Directed by Philip Mitchell and puppets designed by Cecile Williams.

Based on the classic children’s story by Margery Williams, The Velveteen Rabbit is the story of a young boy’s much-cherished toy. To his family, it is just a soft toy amongst many, but to the boy, the rabbit is much more. With a wise horse, bossy bulldozers, a flying fairy and a toy box full of crazy, colourful, walking, talking toys, is it just imagination or can the bond of love make something real? Directed by Philip Mitchell and designed by Zoe Atkinson. The Velveteen Rabbit has been one of Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s most successful shows, touring nationally and selling out at the Sydney Opera House.