A Sparkly, Inclusive Adventure for Little Critters
During the Brisbane Festival, Fancy Long Legs made its dazzling debut, inviting audiences into a whimsical world of creativity, self-discovery, and acceptance. Put together by the creative minds of La Boite Theatre, Brisbane Festival, and The Little Red Company, this vibrant adventure spun a magical web of wonder for kids and families.
This new original musical followed Fancy, a spirited young spider who can't quite focus on her web-building. But with the help of her spiderling friends—Incy, Busy, and Charlotte—Fancy embarks on a mission to find her own style, learning that her way of expressing herself is just as valid and beautiful as anyone else's. Adapted from Rachel Burke's illustrated book, this musical not only celebrated creativity but also tackled the theme of neurodivergence in an accessible and engaging way for children.
A Whimsical Wonderland of Set and Costume Design
Rachel Burke also designed the set and costumes, filling the stage with pastel colours and plush textures. The spider costumes were delightfully fluffy and far from creepy—perfect for easing the worries of little ones who might not be fond of spiders. The set felt like stepping into a giant craft box. Oversized props—think enormous knitting needles, yarn balls, and thimbles—made the stage feel as though the audience had shrunk down to spider size.
Songs to Sing, Dance, and Spark Joy
Music played a huge role in bringing Fancy’s world to life. Composer Waveney Yasso’s original soundtrack was full of catchy tunes that had the kids (and adults!) tapping their feet and bopping along. Songs like 'Fancy Free' and 'Find Your Style' were all about having a blast, while 'Big Feelings' and 'Follow Your Art' really tugged at your heartstrings.
The cast—Mia Lierich (Fancy), Irena Lysiuk (Incy), Kate Yaxley (Busy), and Tim Carrol (Charlotte)—all delivered beautiful performances. Their voices soared during the musical numbers, and their high energy never wavered, keeping the young audience engaged from start to finish. Fancy, played with wide-eyed wonder by Mia Lierich, perfectly captured the excitement and pressure that comes with trying to fit into a world that doesn’t always understand you.
A Story That Shines With Acceptance and Creativity
At its heart, Fancy Long Legs is a celebration of embracing differences and staying true to yourself. Fancy’s struggle to weave her web serves as a metaphor for the challenges that neurodivergent individuals often face. Despite her friends' good intentions to help her, their advice inadvertently adds to Fancy's stress and self-doubt. Overwhelmed, Fancy's emotional outburst — “Stop trying to make me be like you! I’m trying my hardest” — hits home, powerfully portraying the frustration of trying to conform to expectations that were never meant for you. It was impossible not to smile as Fancy's shimmering, colourful web finally came together across the entire theatre in a beautiful display of self-expression—different, but no less amazing.
The actors fully crawled into their spider roles with a script by Noami Price that combined humour and warmth beautifully. The interactions between Fancy and her friends highlighted the importance of friendship and teamwork, especially when things don’t go as planned. The gentle lessons about compassion and patience were presented in a fun, engaging manner—perfect for young minds without feeling like they were being talked down to.
Inclusive Theatre Done Right
Under the direction of Courtney Stewart, Fancy Long Legs stands out for its commitment to inclusivity. From the moment you enter the theatre, it’s clear that every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a welcoming, safe space for all. Relaxed performances meant that the usual “rules” of theatre didn’t apply—audience members were free to wiggle around, make noise, and enjoy the show in their own way. Incy even wandered around the audience beforehand, letting the kids touch some props and costumes. The inclusion of Auslan interpretation, audio description, and tactile tours ensured that everyone, regardless of their needs, could fully experience the magic of Fancy’s journey.
The show’s accessibility was woven into every aspect of its design, from the soft, pastel colour palette to the ambient lighting, and fidget-friendly low-sensory spaces outside. Even the “spidey fingers” applause—used instead of clapping—was a lovely touch, ensuring that sensitive ears weren’t overwhelmed by loud noises.
A Show That Resonates With Kids (and Their Grown-Ups)
While Fancy Long Legs is targeted at children, it had a broad appeal and resonated with all ages. I observed that the young viewers were completely engrossed in the show—some were vocal and energetic, others were quiet and focused, and a few were daydreaming in their own worlds. And that was the beauty of this production: it embraced every kind of child, making them feel seen, understood, and appreciated. The phrase "I wake up excited by the magic in my fingertips" beautifully summed up the sensation of having so much creative potential inside, yet not always knowing how to let it out.
Fancy Long Legs was a delightful world premiere that shone with all the glitter and heart Brisbane families could ask for. From its inclusive approach to its catchy songs, gorgeous set and costumes, and beautiful story this show delivered a theatrical experience that was as much about educating and celebrating neurodivergence as it was about entertaining. Rachel Burke, Naomi Price, and the entire creative team have crafted a beautiful, uplifting work that inspires audiences, both young and old, to embrace their inner fancy. Fancy Long Legs may have spun its final web for now, but its message of embracing who you are is here to stay.
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