The home inside
Written by Emma Rattenbury
Presented by Wonderlight Theatre Aotearoa
Winnie is a homebody.
She finds joy and escape in drawing, and playing with her soft-toy, Afi the monkey, often staying up into the early hours of the morning absorbed in her creativity.
One morning struggling with tiredness, frustration at her parents, and anxiety about going to school, Winnie's emotions erupt into a tantrum, transforming her bedroom into a fantastical natural world.
Guided by elemental creatures—a wise Earth Spirit, playful Pīwakawaka, and a mysterious Tuna—Winnie navigates challenges that mirror her inner struggles. Each encounter teaches her new ways to manage her emotions, from breathing techniques to embracing change. As she overcomes obstacles, Winnie gains confidence and resilience, learning to self-regulate and find comfort within herself.
Underscored by music, puppetry, and striking visual design, The Home Inside is a heartwarming tale of emotional growth, self-discovery, and the power of nature to heal.
An exquisite new work for children from the team that brought you Wonderkind.
“We went to see Wonderkind today for the relaxed performance and we loved it! Such joyful performances and I loved the production values and all the magical shifts that you all created. It felt like the surprises just kept coming!”
CREATIVE TEAM
Wonderlight Theatre Aotearoa (WLTA) is a collective of experienced and emerging arts practitioners. As a company, we are dedicated to valuing young people, not only by creating high-quality theatre and live performances for them but also by mentoring and providing a platform for young and emerging artists and theatre makers.
Wonderlight Theatre Aotearoa presented Wonderkind in 2022 at Circa Theatre, and in 2023 at the Capital E Bite-Sized Treats Festival.
Producer / Project Lead – Kerryn Palmer
Director – Timothy Fraser
Performer / Writer – Emma Rattenbury
Puppeteer & Puppet Design – Bridget Sanders (Birdlife Productions)
Music Composition – Craig Sengelow
Set & AV Design – Rebekah de Roo
Stage Manager / Puppeteer – Peggie Barnes
Lighting Design – Jacob Banks
Operator / Assistant Stage Manager – Isabel Pecora
Publicist / Understudy – Anna Barker
Puppet Design/Costume Intern – Sean Brenan
Music Composition Intern – Thorin Williams
