Ms French read the book to the kids, using a fantastic array of voices. The kids had such a great time, and worked really well exploring the ideas and movement behind the book. The kids were then split into groups and given a page from the group to discuss how they would make it come to life. 

Monkey Baa is a national touring theatre company based in Sydney. They create new Australian work based on Australian literature, with patron Jackie French. They have toured many of her works nationally including Hitler’s Daughter and Pete the Sheep - and about to begin rehearsals for Diary of a Wombat.

The company are about to create a new play based on her beautiful work called ‘Josephine Wants to Dance’, which tells the story of a dancing kangaroo, who dreams of being in the ballet. When the ballet company comes to town, and the leading ballerina falls ill, Josephine steps into the leading role. 

As part of their creative process this year Monkey Baa is working with young people in the initial stages of the script development to understand what they love about the book and the characters. They also work through some of the themes and plot, using drama games and exercise to learn more about the story and about what they think are the important elements of the eventual stage production.

And the lucky students of Braidwood Dance studio were selected to take part in the workshop.