The ADVENTURES of PEACOCK, CHICKEN and the PONY they Rode Upon is an innovative, intermedia theatrical production resulting from a collaboration with Midnight Feast [NSW]. Developed through regional exchanges across NSW and TAS, this project brings together diverse artistic voices. Led by founding SEE artist Dave Montgomery, the cast includes Archie-nominated Digby Webster. With original songs by Mia Palencia, and contributions from artists including Tom Holloway, Matthew Fargher, Roz Wren, Jason James, Cary Littlewood, and Alex Moss, ADVENTURES invites children and families into a world of humour, adventure, and discovery. It will be featured in the Theatre Royal’s Education and Learning and Staycation programs and premiere at the Sydney Opera House.
In this intergalactic musical adventure, singing sages guide the audience through the cosmic and comedic journey of a chicken, a conflicted pony, and a misunderstood peacock, all in search of egglightenment. Beginning with the dawn of the universe, we follow a mystical chicken that escapes an oppressive battery farm in search of the ultimate soup recipe. Along the way, the group encounters a conflicted pony whose head and tail can’t agree on whether to follow duty or joy, and a peacock searching for self-acceptance.
The characters find themselves on a mysterious road, battling existential crises, discovering the beauty in chaos, and questioning life’s most profound mysteries—why did the chicken cross the road, and which came first, the chicken or the egg? With dazzling projections, puppetry, and a touch of Vegas glamour, the story evolves into a whirlwind of transformations. The friends cross roads—literally and metaphorically—destroying old rules and creating new paths.
Through encounters with each other and the universe, the trio embarks on a quest to find their true identities and purpose. Along the way, they battle fears, self-doubt, and the overwhelming vastness of the cosmos, ultimately realising that they are stronger together. With humour, absurdity, and uplifting musical numbers, this journey of self-discovery culminates in a glittering, starry finale that leaves both the characters and audience pondering the beauty of the unknown.
Creative Director: Kelly Drummond Cawthon
Collaborators: Midnight Feast
Musical Director: Matthew Fargher
Lead Artist: David Montgomery
Music: Mia Palencia, Matthew Farger, Oyinbra Enisuoh
Lighting Design and Production Management: Jason James
Dramaturg: Tom Holloway
Visual Design: Alex Moss, Cary Littleford
Puppet Construction: Roz Wren
Performance: Second Echo Ensemble, Midnight Feast
Peacock: Kylie Heart
Chicken: Paul McGee
Pony: David Montgomery and Oliver Williams
Sages: Nicole Farrow, Annalise Haigh, Suzy Dunne
VJ: Digby Webster