In this new adaptation for children aged five-to-10 and their families, a whole new generation of children will be introduced to the wonderful world of May Gibbs.

Gibbs’s quintessentially Australian classics have fascinated and delighted generations of children and families, introducing them to the wonder and magic of the Australian bush.

The Gumnut babies are on a mission to see a human – but only in the distance! On their journey to the big city they meet friends and foes including Professor Kookaburra, Mrs Fantail, Mr Lizard, Mr Frog, Mrs Snake, Mr Possum and, of course, Little Ragged Blossom.

Can Snugglepot lead the way? Can Cuddlepie hold his nerve? Can they avoid falling victim to the Big Bad Banksia Man?

This delightful production, based on the stories by May Gibbs and adapted by Eva Di Cesare, Sandra Eldridge and Tim McGarry is brought to Cessnock by CDP Theatre Producers in association with Monkey Baa Theatre Company.

Both companies have an exemplary reputation for presenting outstanding theatre for children and young people.

Shows will be held at 12pm and 2pm. All tickets are $20 with children three-and-under ‘free on the knee’.

Call into the box office, phone on 4990 7134 or go to  www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.au to book your tickets.

Cessnock and Kurri Library is also getting involved with a Snugglepot and Cuddlepie Storytime the week of the show.

This special event will be held at Cessnock Library on Tuesday, July 12 and Kurri Library the following day.

Listen to stories and songs from the Australian bush, then make your own Snugglepot and Cuddlepie finger puppets.

The free workshops are for children aged two to eight and will run from 10am to 11am.

The libraries are also running a colouring-in competition. Entries available from both libraries and also at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre.

Return your entry to the library by Friday, July 15 for your chance to win a wonderful prize.