Renowned Torres Strait actor Jimi Bani and daughter Agnes Ahwang Bani co-star in the heartwarming theatre show; Lucky and the Flight of the Sky Puppies set to grace the Gab Titui Outdoor Stage on the 15th and 16th of November 2024.
Families are invited for a night of laughter as they follow the journey of Lucky, a Speckled Flying Fox lost far from home and on a whimsical adventure through strange lands.
The unique show, blends puppetry, animation, and music to captivate audiences and explore the beauty of family and friendship. Lucky befriends an eccentric cast of characters played by Jimi Bani, including a wise ibis, an angry cassowary and a naughty pelican who steals food from eskies.
“It’s a feel-good production for all ages, with lots of jokes for adults and kids,” Mr Bani said.
“But most importantly, it’s a sweet story about what home means and what family means.
“I get to co-star alongside my daughter Agnes who is 11, and she operates a couple of puppets; she brings a youthful and playful energy to the show.”
On the journey, Lucky tries to take a mango from an Italian puppy named Pepe, played by Jason Klarwein.
“When I first heard the story of Lucky and the Flight of the Sky Puppies I liked that it told the story of the critically endangered Speckled Flying Fox population in Cairns,” Mr Klarwein said.
“The writers of the show are from Cairns and were concerned about the trees being chopped down in an attempt to disperse them.
“So, the show has a deeper message, delivered in a light-hearted manner through all the crazy characters that Jimi and I play,” he added.
Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the show was an incredible opportunity to welcome community back to the Gab Titui Cultural Centre space after a temporary closure for critical works.
“The TSRA and Gab Titui Cultural Centre supports performing artists and productions like Lucky and the Flight of the Sky Puppies as it showcases the diversity of artistic talent we have in our region,” Mr Stephen said.
“Critical works at Gab Titui Cultural Centre has forced partial closures of the space since August, however, we are proud to have returned to regular off-peak trading hours and are excited to present this production for the community,” he said.
“We will see community come together in such a meaningful way to enjoy an expressive artform that engages with all ages.
“On behalf of the TSRA, I thank Jimi, Jason, young Agnes and the Grin and Tonic Theatre Troupe for bringing the show to the region.
“Families and community members are invited to come along and enjoy a pre-show sausage sizzle hosted by the Gab Titui team,” Mr Stephen added.
Free ferry services are available for both show nights, making the theatrical performance accessible for Ngurupai and Kirriri families.
Seats are limited and bookings are essential. Please contact Gab Titui on 4069 0888 to register, more information will be shared on the Gab Titui Cultural Centre Facebook Page.