The Peasant Prince
A story of courage, resilience and unwavering hope.
The Peasant Prince
The Peasant Prince tells the remarkable true story of a 10-year-old peasant boy’s journey from impoverished rural China to the international dance scene. This is a story of courage, resilience and unwavering hope.
Li, a 10-year old peasant boy is plucked from his village in rural China and sent to a ballet academy in the big city. He leaves everything and everyone he loves, including his family. Over years of gruelling training, this boy transforms from an impoverished peasant to a giant of the international dance scene. Li’s courage, resilience and unwavering hope for a better life for himself and his family makes The Peasant Prince a story to ignite our own aspirations to be the best person we can be.
Monkey Baa's extraordinary production won Best Production at The Glugs and The Sydney Theatre Awards and a Drover's Award for the Best Tour in 2016.
Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
Photos by Heidrun Lohr
- Venue NSW, VIC, QLD, NT, ACT
- Dates May-September
- Duration 60 minutes, no interval
- Ages Ages 7-12
- Years Years 2-6
x
of
x
The Peasant Prince Workshops
Join Li on his adventure from China to the international dance scene with engaging drama games and activities as you explore the themes and world of The Peasant Prince, based on Mao’s Last Dancer.
Our dynamic workshops empower students to build courage through creativity while developing skills across all areas of theatre making. Workshops can be tailored to suit all students’ needs, abilities and areas of study.
Our experienced Teaching Artist will visit your school and run the workshop in the classroom. Watch as your students build confidence and explore their creativity in an experience they will never forget.
Click here for more information, or email alex@monkeybaa.com.au to organise a workshop at your school
Suitable for | Years 2 - 6
Duration | 60mins
Learning Pack
Our learning pack follows Li Cunxin’s journey from China to the international dance scene and the story of the play, providing historical context, with activities for your classroom. Designed for students in years 4, 5 and 6, the pack includes activities for Drama, Art, English, and History, with links to the Australian Curriculum.
Click Here to access our e-Learning Pack, or email alex@monkeybaa.com.au to find out more.
Q&A Sessions
All Education Performances at ARA Darling Quarter Theatre will be concluded with a Question and Answer session with the cast of The Peasant Prince. Students are invited to talk and interact with the artists, and will hear about the unique perspectives our artists have of the story and the creative process.
Creative Team
Eva Di Cesare
Sandie Eldridge
Tim McGarry
Tim McGarry
Egan Sun-Bin
Michael Hankin
Daryl Wallis
Danielle Micich
Lia Reutens
Sian James-Holland
Matt Cox
Li Cunxin
Clare Hawley
“It’s a vivid piece of storytelling that is skillful, theatrical and inspiring. It was a loving and honest adaptation of Li’s treasured memoir." — Stage Whispers
"The Peasant Prince is vital, exuberant, aspirational, and inspirational."
Australian Stage
"Layered with this was a deep connection to humanity and family, an important story to be shared with our youngest audiences."
Darwin Entertainment Centre
"My son was entranced and my daughter was mesmerised. I was drawn in by the magical telling of a powerful story told so simply and so well."
Sydney Arts Guide
"Monkey Baa has created, yet again, a gem for children and adults alike."
Theatre Now
"Offered students and children the opportunity to learn about diverse stories and cultures."
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
"Monkey Baa Theatre Company has created another wonderful work for children."
Broadway World
Accessibility
Wheelchair Accessible
Contact us for more details about wheelchair and companion positions in the theatre
National Relay Service
If you are d/Deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service.
Assisted Listening
Assisted listening devices are available in the theatre.
Acknowledgements
Supported by
