ACO Families: The Nutcracker
12 - 21 December 2026
Performance Info
Current ACO National Concert Season subscribers and eNews subscribers are eligible for presale tickets.
Wednesday 4 February, 10am: Tickets on sale for all ACO National Concert Season Subscribers“We love the children's concerts, they're an absolute delight to watch! Such high quality and amazing music from Australian composers.”
There once was a boy who was made. And although his papa (who is also his sculptor) sees him as more than enough, he sees himself as less. Because he isn’t a real live boy. But he does have a gift. In a world of half-truths and fake news, his nose… knows.
So when he sets off into the world, Pinocchio finds that he can smell a rat. And also ride in a whale. And act like an ass (when he gets turned into one). And outwit a cat and outfox a fox. And eventually… save his papa, Geppetto.
And in doing all these things, he proves himself real and gets out alive. He becomes a real live boy… or does he?
Let your imagination come alive in our brand-new ACO Families production Pinocchio. With an original score played live on stage by ACO Families musicians, this reimagined tale is filled to the brim with joy, wonder and just a touch of real magic.
Written by award-winning playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer (Magic Beach, Are We There Yet?), with an original score by Bryony Marks (Barracuda, Summer Heights High), and directed by Tim McGarry (There’s a Sea in My Bedroom, Boy Swallows Universe), Pinocchio is a celebration of courage, love and the spark that makes us human.
GENERAL PRODUCTION INFORMATION
VENUE: The Neilson
DURATION: Approximately 30-mins + 15-mins ‘Meet the Musicians’ + enjoy free creative play activities in the foyers
AGE RANGE: Recommended for children aged 3 – 8 and their families
SEATING: General Admission with both carpet and seating available
TICKETS: $42 per adult or child 2 years and over (babies-in-arms free on a parent’s lap)
ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCE
The performance on Wed 15 Jul, 12pm will be a Relaxed and Auslan Interpreted performance, presented with flexible seating, adjusted lighting and sound levels, a quiet space to chill out, and Auslan interpretation. All are welcome to attend this performance, which is specifically tailored to those for whom the traditional theatre experience may be inaccessible. Please select the appropriate ticket type at booking.