Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and Little Ragged Blossom

The Adventures of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and Little Ragged Blossom

By John Clarke and Alan John, adapted from May Gibbs (2007)

Staging “a big-hearted new musical for old and young” from May Gibbs’ revered source material was, as director Neil Armfield noted in his program, “a perilous undertaking.” In trying to please both ends of the age spectrum, there’s always a risk of landing in the squishy middle – with a show too juvenile for adults and too grown-up for children. But Snugglepot and Cuddlepie stuck the landing beautifully, delivering all kinds of adorable that appealed to all ages.

Adapted by John Clarke and Doug McLeod from May Gibbs’ beloved tales, it charmed audiences with its story of gumnut heroes chasing bright lights, tangling with Banksia Men and falling for a blossom.

With its themes of friendship and respect – for others and for the environment – it proved a fitting tribute to Gibbs’ nutty vision, and featured many stage favourites including Ursula Yovich, Darren Gilshenan, Tim Richards, Simon Burke and Mitchel Butel.