Part multimedia and part puppet show, A Moon Safari by Steam Bicycle takes the audience on an adventure to the moon.

When:  Until Sunday 12 April, two performances daily at 11am and 2pm

Where:  Studio 1, ACMI, Federation Square MELBOURNE

Cost:  $23, book tickets at acmi.net.au or on 03 8663 2583

This is not your average puppet show (by a long shot), nor is it an animated film, and it is definitely not a lesson in animation making – and yet elements of all three of these are woven together to tell the tale of Nellie Lettuce and her eccentric Uncle Zebulon.

The puppets, and their props, are beautifully crafted – and there is great joy in seeing behind the scenes and enjoying in real time the illusions they create on the big screen.  The acting and puppet work is a joy, as is the use of music and other animation throughout.  The kids enjoyed the story line (I really needed my morning coffee – which I had skipped – but if the kids are laughing out loud and giving it a big thumbs up then I can’t complain).

If you’re wondering what A Moon Safari by Steam Bicycle is actually about (I wont give away the story line) it’s a puppet production that is done in front of the audience, so we get to see the puppeteers and the camera man doing their thing.  On the main screen is a projection of what is happening on the puppet set – so you can choose which element you want to watch.  It’s curious slipping between the screen experience (which is not unlike a TV show or film) and the live production (which allows us to feel as if we are a studio audience – getting to peek behind the scenes).

Seating is not allocated, so if you can come 5-10min early you will nab a centre front row seat (we were on the side and we could clearly see everything – so don’t be too alarmed about missing the front row seats!).  Also once the performance begins you will not be able to access the studio theatre – so don’t be late!

A Moon Safari by Steam Bicycle is recommended for children aged 5+ and is approximately 45minutes long.

Produced by Oscar® nominee Anthony Lucas.