Experience the Magic of Shel We – A Whimsical Contemporary Dance Journey at Bondi Pavilion

This season, Bondi Pavilion welcomes acclaimed Aotearoa (New Zealand) choreographer Tupua Tigafua with Shel We, a beautifully crafted contemporary dance performance that invites audiences into a world of imagination, wonder and heartfelt storytelling.

Inspired by the beloved works of legendary children’s author and poet Shel Silverstein, Shel We is a joyful exploration of family, memory and our connection to the natural world. Through expressive movement, playful storytelling and a beautifully evocative classical score, the performance captures the curiosity and creativity that define childhood while offering moments of reflection and emotion that resonate with audiences of every generation.

Blending humour, tenderness and breathtaking contemporary dance, Shel We is an unforgettable theatrical experience that encourages us to see the world through fresh eyes.

A Story Told Through Movement

At the heart of Shel We is the power of dance to tell stories that words often cannot.

Rather than following a traditional narrative, the performance unfolds through movement, music and imagination, creating an emotional journey that is both playful and deeply moving. Drawing inspiration from the whimsical spirit of Shel Silverstein’s writing, Shel We celebrates the beauty of everyday moments, the bonds that connect families, and the wonder that can be found in nature when we take the time to look.

Each scene invites audiences to embrace curiosity, laugh at life’s absurdities and reflect on the memories that shape who we are.

Whether you’re discovering contemporary dance for the first time or are a lifelong fan, Shel We offers an accessible and engaging experience that speaks to audiences of all ages.

A Celebration of Imagination

Tupua Tigafua has created a production that captures the boundless imagination of childhood while appealing equally to adults.

Filled with unexpected moments of humour, inventive choreography and visual poetry, Shel We encourages audiences to reconnect with their sense of play. The performance moves seamlessly between light-hearted fun and touching emotional moments, creating a rich theatrical experience that lingers long after the final bow.

Accompanied by a beautifully composed classical score, every movement and gesture contributes to a world where imagination takes centre stage and every audience member is invited to dream a little bigger.

Contemporary Dance for the Whole Family

Finding live performance that genuinely captivates both children and adults can be a challenge—but Shel We achieves exactly that.

Created for children aged 4 years and over, while offering layers of meaning for teenagers and adults, the work is an ideal introduction to contemporary dance for young audiences and an inspiring experience for seasoned theatre-goers alike.

Children will delight in the playful movement, imaginative characters and sense of adventure, while adults will appreciate the emotional depth, sophisticated choreography and thoughtful themes woven throughout the performance.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, introducing young people to the performing arts, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Shel We promises something special for everyone.

An Acclaimed Choreographer

Celebrated Aotearoa choreographer Tupua Tigafua is renowned for creating emotionally rich works that combine exceptional physicality with meaningful storytelling.

With Shel We, Tigafua draws audiences into an intimate world where dance becomes a universal language—one capable of expressing joy, grief, curiosity, love and wonder. His distinctive choreographic style creates performances that are both visually captivating and emotionally resonant, inviting audiences to connect with the stories unfolding on stage in deeply personal ways.

A Performance That Stays With You

More than a dance performance, Shel We is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with loved ones and rediscover the magic hidden in everyday life.

It’s a celebration of family, creativity and the natural world, reminding us that imagination has no age limit. Through moments of laughter, quiet reflection and breathtaking movement, the performance creates an atmosphere that is both uplifting and profoundly moving.

Whether you’re attending with children, friends, grandparents or simply treating yourself to an afternoon or evening of exceptional contemporary dance, Shel We offers a shared experience that will spark conversations long after you’ve left the theatre.

Performance Information

Suitable for: Children aged 4 years and over, families, and adults of all ages.

Don’t miss this enchanting contemporary dance experience at Bondi Pavilion. Join acclaimed choreographer Tupua Tigafua for a joyful celebration of imagination, memory and the enduring power of movement—an unforgettable performance that will delight audiences young and old alike.