On 26 March 2026, The Boy with Wings transformed The Lyric Theatre in Granity into a place of quiet wonder, where storytelling, craftsmanship, and imagination converged in a way that felt both intimate and expansive. Presented by Wellington-based Birdlife Productions, the husband-and-wife duo Roger and Bridget Sanders returned for their second visit following their warmly received 2025 performance (Aya and the Butterfly) and this time, the scale of anticipation was unmistakable.
An audience of 130 children, aged 5 to 9, filled the theatre, comprising students from Granity School, Westport North School, and home-schoolers from across Northern Buller. From the outset, the room carried a hum of curiosity that quickly gave way to rapt attention as the performance unfolded.
At its heart, The Boy with Wings is a gentle yet evocative tale, rooted in themes of belonging, courage, and connection to the natural world. Drawing inspiration from the migratory Kuaka (bar-tailed godwit), the narrative resonated especially strongly with the visiting students of Westport North School, who are currently studying the bird as part of their curriculum. This serendipitous alignment elevated the experience from entertainment to something more enduring - learning brought vividly to life.
What distinguishes Birdlife Productions is their meticulous attention to craft. Each puppet is a small marvel, imbued with personality through subtle movement and thoughtful design. The sets were equally exquisite. Layered, tactile, and richly detailed, they created a series of visual worlds that unfolded seamlessly, drawing the audience deeper into the story.
Roger and Bridget’s performance style is understated yet deeply engaging. Without reliance on spectacle, they command attention through vivid storytelling, pacing, and an intuitive understanding of their audience. Moments of humour were well placed, eliciting genuine laughter, while quieter passages held a reflective stillness rarely achieved with such a young crowd.
The event itself was a testament to community collaboration. Generous sponsorship from the Granity Op Shop ensured free entry for all attendees - an invaluable gesture that made the arts accessible to every child present. Adding to the sense of occasion, each child received a custom cookie courtesy of Rainbow Cake Kitchen, a simple but thoughtful touch that rounded out the experience with warmth and delight.
