Barking Gecko Theatre’s HOUSE Returns: Experience the Magic with a New Picture Book from Fremantle Press
Barking Gecko Theatre and Fremantle Press are proud to announce the release of a new picture book to coincide with the return of HOUSE.
This captivating work by playwright Dan Giovannoni and Barking Gecko Theatre’s former artistic director Luke Kerridge premiered in 2021 at the Perth Festival and has since delighted audiences across Western Australia. The picture book of the same name, co-created by Giovannoni and the show’s original set designer Charlotte Lane, serves as a prequel to the production and adds an exciting new dimension to this beloved tale.
Fremantle Press CEO Alex Allan said, “We are delighted to partner with Barking Gecko Theatre on the picture book release of House, bringing this magical story from stage to page. Through this collaboration we are giving children more pathways to develop a love for stories and engage with Western Australian culture – and that’s a powerful way to inspire the next generation.”
In the picture book, a lonely house flies untethered into the sky, where it saves a young girl in peril. As she explores her new shelter, she wanders from room to room, absorbing the amazing house she now inhabits – a calm haven in a raging storm.
Barking Gecko Theatre CEO & Executive Producer Ryan Taaffe said, “We are excited to bring HOUSE back to the stage in 2024. This production has touched the hearts of many, and we look forward to sharing its magic with new audiences. The picture book collaboration with Fremantle Press allows us to extend the story’s reach beyond the theatre. Charlotte Lane’s illustrations beautifully complement the enchanting narrative, offering readers a visual feast.”
The theatre production of HOUSE is a unique and enchanting story of friendship and belonging, featuring three endearing characters and a magical flying home. Suitable for ages eight and above, the story follows Cathelijn, a lonely girl who discovers a whimsical house in a dark forest. Inside, she meets Piotr, a chatty boy, and Elka, an explorer who insists on keeping the curtains closed tight. As the house takes flight, Cathelijn embarks on a journey of self-realisation and self-determination, discovering that this extraordinary house can rescue the Loneliest Child in the World.
The 2024 remount of HOUSE, a remount of the original, will run from November 1 to 9 at the Octagon Theatre at the University of Western Australia. It will feature the same cast from 2021. The enchanting world of HOUSE, with its intricate set and captivating costumes, is brought to life by Charlotte Lane, who also created the stunning artwork in the picture book.
Tickets are now on sale on the Barking Gecko Theatre website. There will be an AUSLAN Interpreted Performance on Saturday, November 2 at 10 am. Enjoy an early bird special on tickets until August 18. The picture book will be available in all good bookstores and online. For more information and tickets, please visit www.barkinggecko.com.au.
About Barking Gecko Theatre
Barking Gecko Theatre (BGT) is a leading Australian theatre company that makes exquisitely crafted, adventurous, and surprising theatre for children and families. For over three decades, BGT has been at the forefront of theatre for young audiences, demonstrating its ability to shift with the times and its continued track record of artistic excellence. BGT has created over 100 new Australian works and performed in 12 countries across the globe. Our award-winning theatre has reached audiences of over 1 million people, leaving a legacy of wonder and imagination in the hearts and minds of children. Our vision at BGT is a world where all children are creative, courageous, and culturally engaged. Everything we do springs from this place of deep respect for children. Our mission is to make theatre of the highest quality for young audiences and their families.
About Fremantle Press
Fremantle Press is an independent book publisher based in Western Australia and embedded in the Australian cultural landscape. Charged with giving voice to Western Australian writers and bringing stories about this place to the world, the Press has published more than a thousand titles and has launched the careers of many diverse, award-winning and bestselling storytellers, including Indigenous writers and artists. Our titles are distributed internationally, translated into foreign languages and adapted for stage, film and TV production – the Press is a truly great exporter of Western Australian stories.
Media Contacts:
Aiman Ridzuan-Morley, Barking Gecko Theatre
+61 404 582 353
aiman.ridzuan-morley@barkinggecko.com.au
Advance review copies for House by Dan Giovannoni and Charlotte Lane are available.
Claire Miller, Fremantle Press
+61 419 837 841
