Shaun tan’s The Red Tree
Blending expressive movement, imaginative staging, and visual storytelling, this dance work follows a young girl’s inner journey where isolation, wonder, despair, and hope take shape.
‘Fascinating, whimsical, and deeply evocative’
-Young Audience Member
ABOUT
Step into Shaun Tan’s award-winning picture book The Red Tree as Phluxus2 Dance Collective brings it to life in an evocative adaptation by choreographer Nerida Matthaei.
The Red Tree invites students to reflect on resilience, empathy, and the shared experience of emotions, while discovering how contemporary dance and physical theatre communicate powerful ideas.
Inspired by the book’s symbolic imagery such as swirling waves, surreal creatures, and glowing red leaves, it shows how small moments of connection can bring light to dark days.
TOURING QLD TERMS 2 & 4 2026, & 2027 | GRADES P-6 & 7-12
CURRICULUM LINK IN DANCE | ENGLISH | DRAMA | VISUAL ARTS
WORKSHOP AND RESOURCE PACKAGE AVAILABLE
BOOK THE RED TREE TO VISIT YOUR SCHOOL!
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BOOK THE RED TREE TO VISIT YOUR SCHOOL! ~
CREDITS
Written by Shaun Tan
Choreographed and Adapted by Nerida Matthaei
Danced by Jade Brider and Charles Ball
Set and Costume design by Nerida Matthaei
Music Composition by Nerida Matthaei
Puppet Creation by Jade Brider and Charles Ball
Assistance from Andrew Milz and Leah Shelton
Producer by Phluxus2 Dance Collective and Shake and Stir Theatre Co
Commissioned by Shake & Stir’s Regional & Remote Schools Touring Program in partnership with the Queensland Government.
- a playful, dreamy and mesmerising experience that feels warm expressive and full of life.’
-Young audience member
