Tiny Stages: Ellis and the Night Orchestra

30 APRIL - 2 MAY 2026

Seven Hills Hub

Ellis and the Night Orchestra is a new chamber opera for 0-5 year olds by writer-director Julie Ritchey and composer/performer Tim Munro, featuring musicians of Southern Cross Soloists.

Ellis is too scared to sleep. Each time he lays down to close his eyes, he hears strange sounds.

Is it a monster....or an airplane flying overhead? A creaky floor, or a ghost? They seem to be in the room with him. As the night goes on, Ellis befriends the sounds, becoming the conductor of his very own Night Orchestra and transforming his fears into beautiful music.

This playful and heartfelt journey will resonate with anyone who has struggled with bedtime.

Blending live music, gentle storytelling and playful imagination, this intimate performance invites young audiences to explore sound, emotion and creativity in a safe and engaging environment. With a relaxed and sensory-friendly approach, children are encouraged to respond in their own way, making it an ideal first theatre experience.

Ellis and the Night Orchestra is part of Backbone's Tiny Stages series (supported by Remy's Real Estate), a program of performances designed especially for children aged 0–3 and their caregivers, focusing on developmental appropriateness, inclusivity, and meaningful early engagement with the arts.

  • Carpark
  • Family Friendly
  • Public Toilet
  • Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)
  • Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
  • Caters for people who use a wheelchair.