Based on the book by Dr Maysoon Salama
Puppeteers: Bridget Sanders and Roger Sanders
Producer: Birdlife Productions
Hamilton Arts Festival Toi Ora Ki Kirikiriroa
1 March 2025
Birdlife Productions puppet show Aya and the Butterfly is based on a children’s book that was written by Dr Maysoon Salama in response to the horrific events that occurred in Otautahi Christchurch six years ago. The story intends to help children cope with grief and change. By the end of the performance, the entire audience has undergone a metamorphosis due to the splendid puppetry of Roger and Bridget Sanders.
Bridget is able to portray Aya shivering, sniffling, smiling, and crying. This is an extraordinary feat given that the puppets all have fixed facial features. Each puppet has a distinct personality and quirks. Younger members of the audience completely immerse themselves in Aya’s tale outwardly reflecting their wonder, sorrow and happiness for the titular character.
Alongside Aya are puppets of Granddad, Mum, and Marshmallow the cat. Growing swan plants, dancing caterpillars, featherlight butterflies, and a cheerful fantail also make an appearance. The set is well thought out and over the course of the performance, transforms for each season.
Roger is a gifted folk musician who plays stringed and percussion instruments to denote the changes between winter, spring and summer. Roger effortlessly encourages children to recite poetry, sing along, and interact with a wayward caterpillar on his shoulder.
Part of the success of Aya and the Butterfly is due to the location. The Japanese Garden of Contemplation contains a building that overlooks the Scroll Garden and lake. Enclosed on three sides and with a low ceiling, this structure is perfect for creating an intimate atmosphere for theatre.
Dr Salama wrote the book for her granddaughter Aya who lost her dad. The Sanders version told with hand and glove puppets is respectful, heartwarming and poignant. Aya and the Butterfly reduces adults to tears through its profound storytelling, while children are mesmerised by all the characters.
On a planet consumed with greed, war and unspeakable tragedy, for 45 minutes a new world is created. This handmade existence with cosy mats, comfy cushions, pretty scenery, live music, and outstanding narration is a far cry from the digital dystopia faced daily.
Over the last 20 years of the Hamilton Arts Festival, I have been fortunate enough to have seen hundreds of productions. Aya and the Butterfly ranks as one of the all-time top five performances and is the best children’s show ever programmed for the established Festival.
First published in Theatreview on 1 March 2025.
Comments