One of Western Australia's most beloved cultural institutions is preparing for a significant transition, marked by a special summer production. The Spare Parts Puppet Theatre will present its innovative new work, Reach For The Sky, at the Fremantle Town Hall throughout the January school holidays. This season carries added poignancy as it will be one of the final productions helmed by the company's long-serving Artistic Director, Philip Mitchell, who has announced his retirement for 2026.
A Creative Journey Inspired by Toy Story
Philip Mitchell's tenure at Spare Parts began in 2001, and a parting gift from a Tasmanian colleague set the tone for his entire creative leadership. He was given a Buzz Lightyear toy, whose iconic motto, "To infinity, and beyond!", became a personal and professional mantra. Mitchell says this ethos of fearless self-belief directly inspired the title and spirit of Reach For The Sky. He emphasises that the show is about empowering every child to explore the limits of their imagination and to believe in their own unique potential.
The production is the company's first major work specifically crafted for early childhood audiences, aged 3 to 7 years. Its development was supported by a four-year partnership with the Minderoo Foundation, focusing on the critical importance of the first 2000 days in a child's life. During this period, rapid brain development occurs, and early experiences lay the groundwork for future health, learning, and behaviour.
A Wordless Celebration of Imagination and Movement
Mitchell, who co-created the show with performer Bec Bradley, wanted to move beyond language barriers. Reach For The Sky uses no spoken words, instead relying on an original musical score by Pavan Kumar-Hari as a universal language. The 40-minute experiential performance, led by puppeteers Bec Bradley and Oliver Hughes, invites young audiences and their caregivers into a world of play, participation, and sensory immersion.
The show is not a traditional narrative but a celebration of pure imagination. It incorporates elements of puppetry, clowning, and improvised play. A key research insight led to the theme of bouncing, both physically and metaphorically. Audience members sit on exercise balls around a giant bed, encouraging a kinaesthetic experience where children are free to express themselves emotionally and physically throughout the performance.
"The work is a fusion of puppetry, clowning, music, sensory immersion, improvised play and movement," Mitchell explains. He describes it as the show he would have wanted to see as a child, one that gives kids the freedom to process emotions and connect with others around them.
A Farewell and a New Future for Spare Parts
The choice of Fremantle Town Hall as the venue is both practical and sentimental. The show's non-traditional staging required a large, open space, which the hall provides perfectly. Mitchell also notes that after nearly 45 years in Fremantle, Spare Parts remains committed to the city, despite its impending relocation.
The company's future home will be at the Claremont Showground, following its displacement from its longstanding base on Short Street in Fremantle. This move is seen as an opportunity for greater sustainability and growth. The future was further secured in October with news of a $5.3 million redevelopment of the Ellie Eaton Theatre and adjacent pavilion at the showground. The new facilities will include a studio theatre, mainstage theatre, creative learning space, offices, and workshops.
Spare Parts Puppet Theatre anticipates presenting its first season in the new Claremont venue in the summer of 2027. Mitchell sees endless opportunities for the showgrounds to become a major hub for cultural and artistic pursuits through new partnerships.
Reach For The Sky will run at Fremantle Town Hall from January 5 to 24, 2026. Tickets are available through the Spare Parts Puppet Theatre website at sppt.com.au.
