Two original Wellington created puppet shows are coming to Colonial Cottage Museum and Museum of Wellington City & Sea these July school holidays. On Wednesday 16 July at 2pm, Pulcinella and the Epic Pizza delivery show will be performed at Colonial Cottage Museum, and on Friday 18 July at 2pm, Museum of Wellington City & Sea will host Once in a Full Moon.

Wellington puppeteer Anna Bailey has created two original shows for children aged four and over. In Colonial Cottage Museum’s Wednesday show, a pizza delivery to New Zealand from Italy takes a dramatic spin in Pulcinella and the Epic Pizza delivery. Pulcinella (Punch's Italian cousin) makes a world record pizza delivery when he takes an order from New Zealand. On this epic journey he has to evade New Zealand customs, take on a black sheep and do battle with Death himself. After the show, kids will have the opportunity to create their own hand puppets.

Punch and Judy was a popular form of entertainment in the 19th century. The Wallis family who lived in the Cottage may have enjoyed some shows. The Museum is thrilled to host a modern day version of the format with a New Zealand spin.

In Museum of Wellington City & Sea’s Friday show, a lonely kiwi will follow his dreams. Once in a Full Moon depicts the story of a kiwi deep in New Zealand bush. The kiwi looks up at the sky and mistakes the full moon for a giant egg. After the show kids will make crazy huhu grub string puppets.

Head of Programmes and Learning, Rachel Ingram says, “We’re excited to welcome Anna back with two new and original puppet shows these school holidays. It’s a great way for families to come together and enjoy stories. We’re thrilled that kids get the opportunity to create their own puppets after the show, and hope they go home to create their own shows and stories.”

Entry to both Wednesday 16 July and Friday 18 July puppet shows and puppet making sessions is by koha. All are welcome to come along and enjoy two afternoons of exciting and original puppet shows presented by Anna Bailey. Bookings aren’t required, but early arrival is recommended.