Baobab

This canonical children’s theatre classic arrives on stage just in time for the holidays, with an array of traditional African instruments, magnificent puppets and infectious songs that will make body and soul move to the beat. The audience eagerly follows the adventures of a little boy entrusted with a formidable quest: calming the angry Sun.

Four spirited performers use voices, puppets and musical instruments to form the beating heart of this charming tale inspired by African oral tradition. Young Amondo hatches from an egg at the foot of a giant tree and is tasked with bringing water back to the parched land. He will have to face countless dangers, including a cantankerous witch and a crafty monkey. Fortunately, the music and the wisdom of the traditional griot storyteller are there to help him.

This dazzling show, which is geared to audiences aged 3 to 103, has been performed all around the world. Now, it’s here for families to enjoy together. How about celebrating the holidays under the baobab tree this year?

 

Pre-show Activities: Got your tickets for the performance on Saturday, December 13th? Join us in the lobby starting at 12 pm til showtime and discover the magic of puppetry at this free, family-friendly celebration! Explore different styles of puppetry, build your own characters, and learn how to bring them to life alongside professional puppeteers. This activity, presented in collaboration with the PuppetsUp! International Puppet Festival, promises creativity, laughter, and plenty of hands-on fun.

(*Arrive early! The NAC will be very lively on Saturday, December 13th, so access to parking may be more difficult than usual).

Sunday, December 14th performance

Families are invited to arrive 45 minutes before the show to experience shadow theatre by creating their own little silhouettes, or to enjoy our cozy reading corner.

Who is it for?

Ages 3-8

Tickets : $15.00+

How to get tickets?

Buy online

Phone: 1-844-985-2787 (ARTS)

 

Date: Saturday December 13, 2025 to Sunday December 14, 2025

Saturday, Dec 13, 2025 | 3:00 PM
Sunday, Dec 14, 2025 | 11:00 PM & 3:00 PM

≈ 50 minutes · No intermission

Puppet Palooza
Saturday, December 13th, 12 PM to 3 PM

Venue & Address

Azrieli Studio, 1 Elgin St, Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5W1

Wheelchair accessible

Paid Parking

Accessible by Public Transport