Monkey Baa Theatre Company to Present New Play THE PEASANT PRINCE This April

This April, the award-winning theatre company for young people, Monkey Baa will premiere The Peasant Prince, a new Australian play based on the incredible story of Mao's Last Dancer.

Following the international success of his autobiography, Mao's Last Dancer, Li Cunxin authored The Peasant Prince, a children's picture book based on his memoirs.

In close development with Li, The Peasant Prince was adapted and written by Monkey Baa Creative Directors, Eva Di Cesare, Sandra Eldridge and Tim McGarry, who also provides direction.

Aimed at ages six and over, the play begins as a young Li Cunxin is taken from his small rural village in northern China to study at an elite dance academy in Beijing. Although the training is grueling, he is inspired by dreams of a better life for both him and his family. When a famous ballet master from the USA visits the academy, his life is changed forever.

"It's always my hope that my life experiences inspire young people to follow their dreams and to take advantage of the boundless opportunities in their lives," said Li. "I think my story proves that with hard work, dedication and determination, anything is possible. You can be successful in anything, if you are willing to go that extra mile."

The show stars John Gomez Goodway (Oneness: Voice Without Form, His Mother's Voice), Jenevieve Chang (Club Shanghai, Stories Then and Now), Jonathan Chan (The Secret Island, Turnadot Reimagined) and Edric Hong (Winter Retreat, A Play Like This).

Exploring themes of belonging, motivation, loneliness and hope, The Peasant Prince will inspire young people to overcome fears and follow their dreams. Following its Sydney premiere at the Lendlease Darling Quarter Theatre, The Peasant Prince will tour 38 venues across Australia.

DATES & TIMES:

9th April (3pm)

11th - 20th April (10:30am and 12:30pm)

FOR: Ages 6+

VENUE: Lendlease Darling Quarter Theatre

Terrace 3, 1 - 25 Harbour Street, Sydney

(across from the Children's Playground at Darling Quarter)

TICKETS: $29pp / $104 Family of 4 / $125 Family of 5 / $25pp Groups of 10+ (no booking fees apply)

BOOKINGS: www.monkeybaa.com.au or 02 8624 9340