THE LOST BALLOON
A lonely character.
A big city.
A shiny yellow balloon.
Suitable for Ages 3 to 102 — this is a show for the young and the young at heart!
The Lost Balloon invites audiences into a whimsical world where a lonely yet loveable character’s discovery of a shiny yellow balloon sparks an unforgettable adventure. But when the balloon drifts away, a charming and chaotic chase through a bustling city begins!
Along the journey, our Hero encounters an array of delightfully eccentric masked characters: the mischievous Golden Oldies, the fabulously flamboyant Lollipop Ladies, and the ever-so-delightful Tourists. Each encounter brings unexpected moments of humour, tenderness, and joy.
Blending world-class mask theatre with captivating visual storytelling,
The Lost Balloon is a heartwarming exploration of human connection. Through laughter and wonder, it reminds us that even the smallest acts of kindness can create ripples of change. Accompanied by an original, soul-stirring musical score, this enchanting production transcends language and cultural barriers, touching audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
DEVELOPMENT HISTORY
Initial: Creative Development (2019) was funded and supported by The Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Second Stage: Creative Development (2020) was funded and supported by The Queensland Government through the Arts Queensland Showcase Program and The Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Final Phase: Rehearsal and World Premiere (2024/2025), supported by The Queensland Government through the Arts Queensland Showcase Program and The Redland Performing Arts Centre.
THE CREATIVE TEAM
The unique team for THE LOST BALLOON is an artistic powerhouse. Internationally recognized and critically acclaimed, they have developed an incredibly reliable and robust international network, amassing a live global audience in the millions. They stand on a career-long ethos: creating world-class theatre in Queensland by Queensland artists that can be joyfully toured worldwide, engaging and inspiring new audiences.
Our Creative Producer is Craig Harrison, who has worked in the arts sector for over 30 years. He's been a board member of youth arts company Cirkidz Inc. and South Australian Circus Centre for 12 years and is one of two Australians on the board of IPAY (International Association of Performing Arts for Youth) in Philadelphia, USA. He recently produced the Helpmann Award-winning show 'Out of Chaos' by Gravity & Other Myths.
Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director & Producer: Clint Bolster
Co-Writer & Co-Director: Bridget Boyle
Associate Creative Producer: Craig Harrison
Mask Performers: Clint Bolster, Allie Wilde, Frans Vogels, Chae Lindeman
Puppeteer: Christopher Lane
Production Design, Build & Costume Design: Josh McIntosh
Costume Maker: Jim Iodiannes & Jo Fahan
Co-Composers & Musicians: David Megarrity and Samuel Vincent
Lighting Designer: Geoff Squires
Sound Designer: Guy Webster
Photographers: Justin Ma and Barbara Lowing
Videography: Tnee Dyer
Education Consultant: Adrianne Jones
Access Consultants: Indelability Arts
Masks Designed and Made: Russell Dean - Strangeface Theatre Company (UK)
World Premiere: Presenting Partner - The Redland Performing Arts Centre, QLD
Special thanks to Ann Mclean, Brett Howe, Jason Glenwright, Penny Everingham & Helen Cassidy for their invaluable creative contributions.
UNIQUE SELLING POINT
The Lost Balloon brings a fresh, innovative approach to physical theatre by combining intricate mask work with rich visual storytelling. The production’s charm lies in its ability to convey a profoundly emotional narrative without words, relying instead on expressive movement, detailed character design, and an enchanting score. Its whimsical yet poignant storyline, centred around the pursuit of a simple balloon, taps into universal feelings of hope, loss, and connection. The production’s humour, heart, and visual beauty ensure that every moment on stage resonates.
MARKETING MATERIALS
HIGH RES Promotional Images
Mini Doco
Archival Footage
Vox Pops
Audience Testimonials
Social Media Support
ENGAGEMENT BEYOND THE PERFORMANCE
Alongside The Lost Balloon, we offer Full-Face, Non-Verbal Mask Theatre Workshops designed for audiences and community groups of all ages and abilities. These hands-on workshops introduce participants to the expressive power of mask performance, exploring physical storytelling, character development, and emotional expression without words. Participants can wear masks, create their own scenes, and build confidence through play and movement. Our workshops foster creativity, collaboration, and connection within communities. These activities promote empathy, active listening, and self-expression by encouraging participants to step into different characters and explore non-verbal communication.
We aim to create safe, inclusive spaces where individuals can discover new skills, share stories, and find joy through performance, regardless of their background or experience level.
CULTURAL LEGACY
The cultural legacy of The Lost Balloon tour lies in the lasting skills, inspiration, and confidence participants gain. Our workshops leave behind a toolkit of creative techniques that can be integrated into local theatre practices, education programs, and community initiatives. Ultimately, the tour nurtures a deeper appreciation for physical theatre and storytelling, empowering individuals to continue exploring and creating long after the final curtain falls.
★★★★★
"I was quite enchanted. The best theatre transcends age and has a universal quality. l think for me as an older person; it transported me back to something l feel l have lost .....the innocence of childhood! It was lovely to reconnect with it again. It reminded me a little of Shaun Tan's book "The Lost Thing," which l recently shared with my grandson Jack, who is five. I know Jack would have been as captivated as I am by The Lost Balloon, and I look forward to one day taking him to see the finished product. Great masks and beautiful music."
Arts Queensland, QLD
★★★★★
"It was gorgeous! Patrick (the five-year-old) was talking about the show the next day and thought the child chasing the balloon was hilarious. He told his kindergarten teacher about the child climbing a pole and the balloon that kept getting away. I thought it was lovely—how the child interacted with all the different characters and how the balloon seemed to have a personality. You've got a great team working on the show!"
ArTour, QLD
★★★★★
"Just wanted to say a HUGE congrats. What a lovely, beautiful piece of work you have created, particularly over this last four-week period. I thought it was gorgeous, and the performers' artistry was brilliant. We have nothing like this on our stages, so I sincerely hope this work keeps going and thousands and thousands of people and little people get to experience this show."
Indel Arts, QLD
