The Peasant Prince

Monkey Baa Theatre Company is thrilled to present our education program of ‘The Peasant Prince’ for students in years 2-6 and their teachers, playing at ARA Darling Quarter Theatre in May, Term 2 2024. 

The children’s version of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography, ‘Mao’s Last Dancer’, ‘The Peasant Prince’ is an extraordinary production of a remarkable story – of a peasant boy turned dance giant. It will inspire and enthral young audiences. 

‘The Peasant Prince’ tells the incredible true story of a 10-year-old peasant boy’s journey from impoverished rural China to the international dance scene. This is a story of courage, resilience and unwavering hope. 

Li, a 10-year old peasant boy is plucked from his village in rural China and sent to a ballet academy in the big city. He leaves everything and everyone he loves, including his family. Over years of gruelling training, this boy transforms from an impoverished peasant to a giant of the international dance scene. Li’s courage, resilience and unwavering hope for a better life for himself and his family makes ’The Peasant Prince’ a story to ignite our own aspirations to be the best person we can be. 

Students will be captivated by this very personal story, truly a 20th century fairy tale. 

Monkey Baa's extraordinary production won Best Production at The Glugs and The Sydney Theatre Awards and a Drover's Award for the Best Tour in 2016. 

Workshops and learning packs are also available to all school-group bookings. Visit our website for more information.  

“You have your secret dreams. Follow them. Make them come true.” From The Peasant Prince by Li Cunxin