Iconic Green Sheep Book Inspires Australian Stage Show

"Where Is the Green Sheep?", a collaboration between Mem Fox and Judy Horacek, has been celebrated as the third-best Australian picture book by Guardian readers. Originally a simple drawing by Horacek, the book has achieved international success, selling over 2.5 million copies and being published in 11 countries.

This enduring success has now inspired a stage adaptation by Monkey Baa theatre company. The play, which blends puppetry and animation, is set to tour 80 venues across Australia during 2026 and 2027. The creation process involved students from Bankstown West public school, whose voices narrate the story, adding a unique layer to the production.

Horacek attributes the book's lasting appeal to its humor, charm, and the interactive rituals families create around reading it, such as naming the sheep. The book's accessible text, with only 190 words, also makes it ideal for early readers, teaching them about colors, opposites, and rhyme.

The stage show aims to provide families with an analogue experience, fostering presence and connection. This initiative aligns with Monkey Baa's mission to create meaningful, real-life moments for young audiences. The show's co-creation with students and its planned extensive tour underscore the book's continued relevance and intergenerational appeal.