Flight Path Theatre and Shiny Heart Productions proudly present The PaperBoats production of Especially on Birthdays. Now performing at Flight Path Theatre, and touring to NSW schools, theatres and community venues.

ABOUT THE SHOW:

Especially on Birthdays is an award-winning, interactive 42-minute visual theatre show for children aged 3-12.

Part performance. Part game. Part celebration.

Especially on Birthdays captures all the joy, excitement and concerns of twins facing their sixth birthday. Told that they'll be in separate classes after their birthday, one twin - quiet and fearful of change - decides to stay five forever, while the other - boisterous and brave - tries to help them discover the joy of growing up and making new friends.

Through play, movement, music, and thoughtful audience participation, children step into the story as active co-creators, gently supporting the twins as they navigate big feelings; learning to embrace their differences, discover the power of friendship, and find the courage to grow. Together, we explore themes of:

Sameness and difference
Friendship, empathy, and kindness
Courage, change, and self-discovery

Featuring stunning visual imagery, a mostly non-verbal narrative, and an enchanting original score by Matthew Wilder (Disney’s Mulan), this inclusive production is accessible and captivating for children of all abilities. Created by The Paperboats and proudly presented by Flight Path Theatre and Shiny Heart Productions, Especially on Birthdays offers a rich and emotionally resonant theatre experience, deeply connecting with young hearts while delighting audiences of all ages.

The NSW production of Especially on Birthdays premiered during the inaugural Lights Up Kids Festival at Flight Path Theatre in August 2024, and is the current resident children’s show at Flight Path Theatre. Especially on Birthdays is now open for booking exclusive school performances at Flight Path Theatre and touring to NSW schools, theatres and community venues. Contact our team at info@innerwestdrama.com to find out more.

BOOKING INFORMATION:
Dates: 2025-2027
Location: Flight Path Theatre, Marrickville
Touring: NSW Theatres, community venues and school halls/gym.
Duration: 42 minutes (no interval)
Age: 3-12 and families
Themes: Friendship, Difference, Empathy, Courage, Change
Optional Add ons: Interactive Drama Workshops, Teacher/Education Resource Pack

Conceived and directed by: Dave Brown (The PaperBoats)
2024 Remount Director: Temeka Lawlor (The PaperBoats)
Associate/Tour Director: Susan Huang
Music Composer: Matthew Wilder (Disney’s Mulan)
Lighting Consultant: Bob Weatherly (The PaperBoats)
Lighting and Sound Operator: Amy Van Gelder Brown
Performers: Susan Huang, Maliyan Blair
Past performers/understudies: Matt Abbotomey, Amy Van Gelder Brown
Producers: Kate Bookallil and Siobhan Lawless (Flight Path Theatre), Susan Huang (Shiny Heart Productions)

SCHOOL INFO PACK

TOURING INFORMATION FOR THEATRES AND COMMUNITY VENUES: To receive the presenter pack, please email: info@innerwestdrama.com or call Kate/Siobhan: 0405399931

Teacher Reviews:
Absolutely fantastic! Our children were so engrossed in the show throughout the whole time and thoroughly enjoyed the story. It was so wonderful to see them wonder what was happening and why, recognising the various emotions, and relating to the characters. We were so grateful for the opportunity to engage our children in drama which we believe not only nurtures our children’s creative thinking and imagination, but also builds their understanding of people’s emotions. We look forward to having more opportunities like this to enrich our children’s learning in the future. Thank you. Carrie, Educator, Goodstart Marrickville.

“I was amazed how it drew all their attention, they were very engaged and I also found it very resourceful for learning about emotions. So I highly recommend it to all schools.” Jen - Educator, Addison Rd ELC.

Student Reviews:
The play that we watched was amazing! It was well written, very clear, and full of emotion! The actors' talent made me feel like I was really there! I understood the story line quite well, but I will admit some parts were puzzling. The next scene always explained my confusion.The music portrayed the scene's emotional state and I was hooked! The comedy and the tragedy were a perfect balance! I have nothing bad to say! Kudos. - Stage 3 Student, Wilkins PS

I love how since there wasn’t much talking you can really interpret it in
many different ways. It was so impressive how they can tell a story
without saying anything at all. I loved how the audience got to interact
with such an amazing play. It was so enchanting and fascinating to watch.
I love how they had a complication and a sweet resolution. - Stage 3 Student, Wilkins PS

I loved how expressive it is and how they talked about the challenges they faced and even when it was hard they overcame it and didn't give up. It was sweet and emotional and I loved how they expressed their feelings with movement and props instead of talking. I also enjoyed how they got people to come up and act in their amazing story. - Stage 3 Student, Wilkins PS

Last month my school took us, stage 3, to see a play at the Flight Path Theater. Everyone was so excited and we had so much fun.
The play was about two twins having the best 6th birthday of their lives!
I really loved how they involved the audience because it made it really fun and more interesting. It was funny and really well made and they had some really cool tricks. They didn't need to talk much because they explained everything perfectly using facial expressions and body language. I liked how they had to face some challenges but they managed to get through them and I really liked how they had cool paper props. I think you should go see it because it's kid friendly, fun and funny! - Stage 3 Student, Wilkins PS

“It was awesome and it taught me how not to be afraid of change” - Blake, 10

It was amazing and fun. Did make me cry but was good - Charlotte 9

I loved it! All of it! - Cleo 7

“I absolutely loved it. From thrills and laughs to “oh that’s sad”. I awed at your talent. Hope to meet again!” Jahnava 12

Parent reviews:
So beautiful and performed brilliantly. A show for everyone . - Mel, parent

Such a beautiful play for kids and grown ups. Loved it! Anna, parent

Lots of fun, very interactive! Great for the kids. Diane, parent

Watch sneak peak