Before the Show

• We are going to see SofT foREST at Paddington Reservoir Gardens.

• When we arrive, we go to the registration tent.

• A friendly person will:

  • Write down our names.

  • Give us a wristband to show us what session we’re booked in to.

  • Ask us to scan a QR code and fill in our details.

• After this, we will wait at the meeting place until the show starts.

Starting the Show

• An Erth performer will come and tell us it’s time.

• We will walk to the footbridge together.

• On the footbridge:

  • Kids will receive a set of headphones.

  • Some adults get glowing firefly puppets.

• Kids will be told when to put on their headphones.

• Adults will learn how to make the fireflies light up and move together.

During the Show

• When the voice in the headphones says so, kids will walk with the performer down the stairs to the sunken garden.

• Adults with fireflies will stay upstairs for now. They’ll join the kids soon, but they’ll be able to see them at all times.

• In the garden, kids will meet Fauna, a big inflatable puppet who lights up with different colours.

• She is 4 metres tall when standing on her 2 legs, but she can crawl on her knees, or sit on the ground. When seated she has big arms that can wrap around you in a hug.

• Fauna will invite the kids to sit on picnic rugs on the grass. Blankets will be there if you want to feel cosy.

• The kids will listen to Fauna’s story through the headphones.

• Kids will be invited to follow her instructions, and to close their eyes and use their imaginations.

• While this happens, the adults with fireflies will come down the stairs, moving together like a glowing swarm, and rejoin the kids.

• The firefly puppets will then interact with Fauna and the kids. They’re made from small LED lights on the ends of re-purposed fishing rods.

Ending the Show

• Fauna will say goodbye to everyone.

• Kids will give their headphones back.

• Adults will give their fireflies back.

• Everyone will walk up the stairs and leave the gardens together.

• There’s a lift to use if anyone needs it.

After the Show

• A few days after the show, an email will arrive with the soundtrack from the headphones and some more information about Fauna.

• Kids can tell their families what Fauna said and share the story.

If you have any feedback on how we can make our performances more accessible, please contact us at info@erth.com.au