PHIVE and Riverside come alive these school holidays

It’s time to be taken on an adventure in the upcoming school holidays as Beetle takes over Parramatta’s cultural, community and civic hub, PHIVE, for a uniquely Australian performance.

Straight from sell out performances at the 2023 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the must-see production by Legs on the Wall, tells a story about resilience and hope through Sally and her search for the elusive Christmas Beetle. It comes to life with acrobatics and animations created from original artworks by beloved children’s author and illustrator, Freya Blackwood. 

Throughout her journey, Sally discovers the important connection she has with her environment and forming friendships while exploring a magical bush habitat. 

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Sameer Pandey said the City prided itself on bringing world-class performances to Parramatta for young and old to enjoy.

“It has been one year since PHIVE opened its doors to become Parramatta’s new lounge room and what better way to celebrate than watching the amazing production of Beetle,” Cr Pandey said.

“Beetle is part of PHIVE’s jam-packed school holiday program and we are delighted to host it.

“I’d encourage families to book as soon as possible, to avoid disappointment, and plan a day to come and enjoy what’s on offer at our wonderful community and civic hub in the heart of our CBD.”

The show is also part of the Spot On Children’s Festival, which has extended its successful program outside Riverside Theatres to PHIVE. Riverside remains the home of the best children’s entertainment and activities in Western Sydney, with the festival running over nine jam-packed days from 23rd September to 4th October.

Riverside Theatres director Craig McMaster said this year’s program included everything from musical performances to physical comedy and circus acts.

“Riverside’s Spot On Children’s Festival is such an important part of our community programming and it’s wonderful to see its expansion into Parramatta’s incredible new Civic Hub, PHIVE,” Mr McMaster said.

“This year’s fabulous extended program shows the magic of theatre for children is alive and well and we are looking forward to presenting our biggest and best Festival yet.”

Riverside’s Spot On Children’s Festival encourages children to explore the world of the arts, delve into tales of magical creatures and places near and far and experience the power of live performance and dynamic storytelling.

For tickets to Beetle visit cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/phive

To find what’s on and to book for the Spot On Childrens’ Festival, please click here