FAQs

The AWESOME International Arts Festival for Bright Young Things is an annual celebration of creativity for children aged 0–12 and their families, presented by Barking Gecko Arts. The festival brings transformative arts experiences through theatre, dance, music, literature, visual arts, exhibitions, workshops, creative play, and interactive events.

• Perth Cultural Centre: Tuesday 30 September – Saturday 4 October 2025
• Koorliny Arts Centre, Kwinana: Saturday 20 September 2025
• Esperance Civic Centre: Tuesday 30 September – Saturday 4 October 2025
• Beverley Station Arts Gallery and Platform Theatre: Tuesday 7 October – Wednesday 8 October 2025
• Hopetoun Youth & Art Space: Tuesday 7 October – Tuesday 14 October 2025

The Festival is designed for children aged 0–12, but everyone is welcome. Many events are perfect for families, school groups, and community audiences, including children with access or additional needs.

Each show or workshop has recommended ages. Please check individual event listings on awesomearts.com to make sure the activity suits your child’s age and interests.

• Visit awesomearts.com to book online
• Use the ticket link on individual event pages
• Call the Barking Gecko Arts Office on (08) 6184 4905 during business hours
• For State Theatre Centre shows, you can book in person, through artsculturetrust.wa.gov.au, by calling their Box Office at (08) 6212 9292, or by emailing boxoffice@artsculturetrust.wa.gov.au

Yes. Companion Cards are accepted for all performances at the State Theatre Centre of WA. For other venues, please contact our office on (08) 6184 4905.

Yes! Many Festival experiences are free, such as:

• The Feetbus
• Seam Together
• Exhibitions
• Creative hubs and Imaginative play areas in the Teddy Bear’s Garden

Yes. Schools, childcare centres, and community groups are encouraged to contact the Festival Office on (08) 6184 4905 or email gecko@barkinggecko.com.au to discuss group discounts and bookings.

Yes. The AWESOME Festival supports the Social Model of Disability and is committed to creating inclusive experiences. We publish a detailed Accessibility Guide to help families make informed choices based on their child’s needs.

Call (08) 6184 4905 or email gecko@barkinggecko.com.au. Our team will be happy to assist.

• Walk: Across the Roe Street pedestrian bridge from the CBD
• Train: To Perth Train Station, then walk across Roe Street pedestrian bridge
• Bus: To Perth Busport, then walk up William Street to Perth Cultural Centre
• CAT Bus: The Blue CAT Line stops outside WA Museum Boola Bardip

The closest City of Perth car parks are:

• State Library Car Park, Francis Street
• Cultural Centre Car Park, Roe Street

Yes. Thanks to our partners at City of Perth Parking, Festival audiences can access 5 hours of parking for just $9 at the State Library or Perth Cultural Centre car parks between 30 September and 4 October. Validate your ticket at the AWESOME Festival Information Booth at the State Theatre Centre. Offer valid from 6:00 a.m. to 5:59 p.m. Information Booth open 9:30 am–3:00 pm. Terms and conditions apply.

Most shows are indoors. Outdoor activities will continue where possible or be relocated to sheltered spaces. Please check our website and social media for updates in case of inclement weather.

• Kwinana: Reasons to Stay Inside, El Presidente Minusculo, Kids Markets, Imagination Playground, storytelling, and creative workshops
• Esperance & Hopetoun: Free artist hubs with songwriting, filmmaking, looping, and beatboxing workshops
• Beverley: Author sessions, drama and improv workshops, textile arts with the Crafty Nannas, El Presidente Minusculo, and Kids Markets

Website: awesomearts.com

Facebook: facebook.com/awesomeartsau

Instagram: @awesomeartsfestival

Hashtag: #2025AWESOMEFestival

Phone: (08) 6184 4905 (Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm)

Email: gecko@barkinggecko.com.au

Yes! Volunteers aged 15+ are welcome. Gain hands-on experience in arts events by emailing volunteers@barkinggecko.com.au.