Why Choose Platypus Theatre?
We know your time and resources are very valuable and that every penny spent on your family and education concerts needs to be a penny well spent. So, here’s why hiring Platypus makes not only artistic, but financial sense.
“I’ve played for countless young-people’s concerts and found your production to be the most entertaining and interesting one I’ve ever seen. I can’t imagine a symphony in North America that wouldn’t benefit from working with the folks at Platypus Theatre. Bravo to you and your capable staff. Thanks for providing a valuable and unique product to the symphonic market. May you continue to be more and more successful – and hurry back to Utah!”
What does Platypus bring to the table?
Experience and a proven track record:
Three decades of producing high-quality programs for orchestras around the world.
650+ performances with 75+ orchestras on three continents for nearly 1 million spectators.
As many as 18 re-engagements with the same orchestra.
Rave reviews from critics, orchestra managers, musicians, parents, teachers and children
Is it expensive to hire Platypus?
No, in fact we save you time and money:
Creating a high-quality family and education concert can cost an orchestra tens of thousands of dollars. In addition to the hard costs you incur, there are the dozens of hours you, your conductor and your library staff put into make the show happen. When you hire Platypus we provide everything:
High quality scripts and repertoire to thrill your audiences.
Highly trained and experienced professional actors and a stage manager (if necessary) to bring the shows to life.
Music in bound, high-quality, professionally type-set books for each musician so no work for your librarian. Books are ready to be placed on the music stands.
Bound scores including text cues and an archival video for the conductor.
All costumes, props and a lighting plot (can be adjusted to suit the capabilities of the hall.)
“...a brilliantly constructed show. A perfect blend of entertainment and esthetic education. It delights parents as much as the young people they bring.”
How many rehearsals are needed for a Platypus show?
All Platypus shows can be done on one rehearsal.
Do Platypus shows have complicated technical requirements?
No.
We provide a lighting plot for every show and a stage manager to work with the crew at your hall to make everything happen. Our lighting plots are flexible and can be adapted to the capabilities of your hall.
What is special about a Platypus concert?
Our three guiding principles:
The show must focus on high-quality repertoire which must be both thrilling for the audience and enjoyable for the musicians. (Please see the testimonials from musicians on our reviews page.) The orchestra must never be a “back-up band” or used simply as a wash of sound that accompanies the action. The music is at the centre of the concert and the story.
The show must be both entertaining and educational. Much as we want to thrill children with our programs, we always remember that the primary function of our concerts is to introduce children to classical music. Each program focusses on a musical idea or theme that is explored through the story. Examples of this are:
The instruments of the orchestra (Charlotte and the Music-Maker)
The evolution of classical music from Gregorian Chant to the present day. (How the Gimquat Found Her Song)
Music associated with specific cultures. (Presto, Mambo!)
The basic elements of music. (Emily Saves the Orchestra)
Tell the children a good story. Nothing engages children like a good story. The musical theme of each program is explored through an exciting, funny and heart-warming story. The music lessons are part of the fabric of the story so while the children are fully engaged in the story, they are learning important lessons about music.
Do Platypus shows require a large orchestra?
No.
We have shows for every size of ensemble from six musicians to a full symphony orchestra . You can see the instrumentation on each program’s show page.
