Play School will arrive in Canberra for three shows in October. Photo: Supplied.
There’s a bear in there. And a chair as well. There are people with games. And stories to tell. Open wide. Come inside. It’s Play School … every Aussie knows the song, and soon the bear, the chair and the people with games will be coming to Canberra!
Presenter Kaeng Chan will be among the team taking Play School magic across the country.
He said they’re expecting the tour (which includes three shows in the bush capital) to attract people of all ages.
“It’s easy for the parents to sing along with the kids,” he told Region.
After all, the songs and dances of Play School have been beaming into our homes for decades, teaching young Aussies about learning through play.
“It’s 60 years strong,” he said of the show.
“It’s just a joy. You get to pinch yourself sometimes when you go into the studio, because you’re surrounded by this iconic set and these iconic toys.”
While he wouldn’t be drawn into spilling any secrets about what the show will involve, Kaeng said there will be some old (and newer) favourites.
In Humpty’s Big Celebration!, Humpty is planning for a very special, very big show.
But he runs into trouble when the wheels on the bus get stuck.
The 40-minute concert has been organised to celebrate the 60th birthday – but the milestone celebrations won’t look like a normal party.
“There won’t be any cake on the live show – I reckon it might get a little messy,” Kaeng said.
Can you spot Play School fan favourite Big Ted on the couch? Photo: Supplied.
Kaeng said the iconic show became a beloved part of Aussie history for a simple reason that went beyond its bright colours and shapes.
“I think it’s because we never take the kids for granted.
“There’s always an element of connection with that child at home.
“The kids actually feel heard. They feel counted and they feel included. I think that’s important when we are educating young minds.”
But he reckons parents are fans for another reason.
“It’s also given the parents half an hour to do what they need to do, whether it’s the dishes or the washing,” he said
“They can trust Play School to hold the child’s attention and bring a little fun to the child’s morning for about half an hour, while they get on with what they have to do.”
Kaeng said that while the 60th anniversary makes the live show “a bit more special”, he’s keen on coming to Canberra.
“I actually love Canberra because I think Canberra itself is a lovely little nook.
“Canberra has a really beautiful atmosphere … Every time we’ve gone to Canberra, the audience is so warm.”
Tickets for Play School Live Concert: Humpty’s Big Celebration! cost between $35 and $46. There will be three shows at the Canberra Theatre Centre: at 11:30 am on 2 October, and at 9:30 am and 11:30 am on 3 October.
