Review: The Koala Who Could at LOWRY is ‘an uplifting journey of courage and change’

LOWRY welcomes ‘The Koala Who Could’, a heartwarming and delightful stage adaptation of Rachel Bright’s book that’s sure to charm both children and parents.

The story follows Kevin, a lovable but fearful koala who prefers to stay in the safety of his tree. Cautious Kevin is stuck in his ways and is reluctant to try anything new, even when his outback friends invite him to join their games and adventures.

With the encouragement of the audience and friends, he learns the world is not as scary as he thought.

The Koala Who Could at LOWRY

One of the highlights of the show is its interactive nature as children in the audience are encouraged to cheer Kevin on.

Some parts of the show the actors ask the audience questions such as “what’s your name?” and the theatre lights will go on indicating to the children to respond.

This involvement makes the experience even more engaging for little ones, who become part of Kevin’s journey as he grows from a fearful koala into a more confident and courageous character.

The show gently explores important themes like fear, change and personal growth all in a way that’s accessible and relatable for young audiences.

It provides a valuable message like feeling fear but doing it anyway, but trying new things can lead to amazing experiences.

Perfect for young children

With a simple, easy-to-follow storyline, lively music, colourful visuals, and a loveable cast of characters, “The Koala Who Could” is perfectly tailored for young children.

At the performance, many little ones were completely captivated, laughing, clapping, and clearly enjoying every moment.

Whether you’re familiar with the beloved children’s book or discovering Kevin’s story for the first time, this production is a joyful, feel-good experience that leaves audiences smiling — and maybe even feeling a little braver themselves.

Danny Hendrix, Sarah Palmer, and Christopher Finn

Danny Hendrix, Sarah Palmer, and Christopher Finn form a dynamic trio, bringing a remarkable chemistry of fun to the stage. Their ability to connect with the children in the audience is effortless, with the team drawing young viewers into the narrative through animated expressions and well-choreographed movements.

They transform the stage into a vivid Australian landscape, crafting a sense of escapism that allows the audience to lose themselves in the adventure. Their performance is not only entertaining but also immersive, turning the entire production into a joyful experience for children and adults.

Eamonn O’Dwyer’s music and lyrics truly shine in this production, adding even more energy and heart to every scene. The songs are catchy and cleverly written, creating a vibrant atmosphere that keeps the audience engaged throughout the show.

One standout song is “Reasons to Be Fearful”, a humorously crafted song that dives into Kevin the koala’s long list of irrational fears. The lyrics are witty and are delivered with perfect comedic timing.

It’s a brilliant moment in the show that captures Kevin’s anxious personality while keeping the tone light and playful — a perfect balance of charm and comedy that showcases O’Dwyer’s talent.

Tickets for The Koala Who Could

The Koala Who Could is on at LOWRY from Wednesday 9th April to Sunday 13th April 2025.

You can get tickets for the Koala Who Could at LOWRY by clicking here