Birdlife Productions’ puppet show Aya and the Butterfly is based on a children’s book that was written by Dr Maysoon Salama in response to the horrific events that occurred in Ōtautahi Christchurch six years ago. The story intends to help children cope with grief and change. By the end of the performance, the entire audience has undergone a metamorphosis due to the splendid puppetry of Roger and Bridget Sanders.

Bridget is able to portray Aya shivering, sniffling, smiling and crying. This is an extraordinary feat given that the puppets all have fixed facial features. Each puppet has a distinct personality and quirks. Younger members of the audience completely immerse themselves in Aya’s tale, outwardly reflecting their wonder, sorrow and happiness for the titular character.

Alongside Aya are puppets of Granddad, Mum and Marshmallow the cat. Growing swan plants, dancing caterpillars, featherlight butterflies and a cheerful fantail also make an appearance. The set is well thought out and over the course of the performance, transforms for each season.

Roger is a gifted folk musician who plays stringed and percussion instruments to denote the changes between winter, spring and summer. He effortlessly encourages children to recite poetry, sing along, and interact with a wayward caterpillar on his shoulder.

Part of the success of Aya and the Butterfly is due to the location. The Japanese Garden of Contemplation contains a building that overlooks the Scroll Garden and lake. Enclosed on three sides and with a low ceiling, this structure is perfect for creating an intimate atmosphere for theatre.

Dr Salama wrote the book for her granddaughter Aya, who lost her dad. The Sanders’ version, told with hand and glove puppets, is respectful, heartwarming and poignant. Aya and the Butterfly reduces adults to tears through its profound storytelling, while children are mesmerised by all the characters.

On a planet consumed with greed, war and unspeakable tragedy, for 45 minutes a new world is created. This handmade existence with cosy mats, comfy cushions, pretty scenery, live music and outstanding narration is a far cry from the digital dystopia faced daily.

Over the last 20 years of the Hamilton Arts Festival, I have been fortunate enough to have seen hundreds of productions. Aya and the Butterfly ranks as one of the all-time top five performances and is the best children’s show ever programmed for the established Festival.

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Nestled within the cozy confines of Circa Theatre, Aya and the Butterfly by Birdlife Productions unfolds a whimsical journey of self-discovery that resonates with audiences of all ages.

The performance seamlessly blends captivating storytelling with intricate puppetry and music.

At its core is Aya, who navigates a transformative odyssey over a year; exploring themes of courage, grief and embracing one’s true self.

The production’s strength lies in its diverse storytelling mediums. Each scene unfolds (often literally) with wonder, captivating the audience throughout. The puppeteers’ skilful manipulation breathes life into the characters, making them endearing and relatable.

The performances are commendable. Each cast member – Bridget Sanders (also Director/Producer), Roger Sanders (also Musical Director/Composer) and Jen McArthur – brings warmth and sincerity to their characters. The enchanting musical score adds depth to Aya’s experiences, evoking a sense of whimsy that lingers beyond the final bow.

Aya and the Butterfly offers a charming theatrical experience that entertains and inspires. With heartfelt storytelling, breathtaking puppetry and universal themes, it speaks to the child in all of us, reminding us of the magic within and the beauty of each moment. 

Dev Rama (aged five):

Aya and the Butterfly is a puppet show. Aya meets a butterfly friend. Aya lives with her grandpa and her mum. They change the set and sing songs to make the seasons change. Aya grows plants for caterpillars to eat. Aya gets a new butterfly friend.

I liked the part where she found a butterfly friend. I also liked the part where that tree moved. I liked the caterpillars when they danced a little bit. My favourite part was when she floated away. 

Luna Rama (aged seven):

Aya loves butterflies, her unicorn, Sparkles and her family.

I liked the part where she floated away on her kite. I liked when the caterpillars danced and when Aya and her grandad danced, and when her grandad fell asleep. It was magical when the little seedlings popped out. The changing seasons were so pretty. They removed leaves from plants and the flowers came out. They asked the audience to clap and stomp and make sounds to make a thunderstorm and it sounded like a real one and the lights flashed and it was so cool. It was cool when there was a swarm of butterflies too.

Aya and the Butterfly taught me that sometimes sadness and change need time and love.

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