Platypus Theatre

Platypus Theatre
Since 1989, almost one million young audience members have been introduced to classical music through Platypus Theatre. After more than 500 performances with more than 60 orchestras worldwide, Platypus has established itself as one of North America’s premiere music education theatre companies. Original and engaging storylines are presented in an intelligent and interactive way, with music always taking the lead role. Children laugh, sing and empathize with the characters while learning musical concepts, styles, and much more. In 2006, one of Platypus’ most cherished productions How the Gimquat Found her Song was produced for TV and went on to win several awards including Best Children’s Program at the prestigious Banff World Television Festival. In 1991, Platypus was the subject of a nationally broadcast documentary on CTV, followed by a PBS full-performance broadcast in 2000. During its 25th anniversary year, Platypus will premiere its eighth original production, Latin Beats, Heroic Feats, in partnership with four orchestras across Canada. Other Platypus Productions include Emily Saves the Orchestra, Rhythm in your Rubbish, Bach to the Future, Charlotte and the Music-Maker, Flicker of Light on a Winter’s Night, and Peter and the Wolf.
 
Peter Duschenes, Artistic Director and Writer
Thousands of young classical music fans have Peter to thank for introducing them to symphonic music. He co-founded the Platypus Theatre touring company in 1989 to make orchestral music accessible for youth, and more than half a million concert-goers have benefitted from his creativity. As an award-winning playwright, Peter’s writing credits include – among others – all eight Platypus productions, the television adaptation of How the Gimquat Found Her Song which won Best Children’s Program at the prestigious Banff World Television Festival in 2008. In addition to his roles in Platypus shows, he has also acted and directed with companies across Canada and the United States. When Peter isn’t busy helping the Gimquat find her song, he and his wife Sarah are helping their children, Magda and Theo, find their socks.
 
Danielle Desormeaux, Performer
Danielle is one of the more adaptable creatures in the Platypus Theatre touring company. You can see her as the Gimquat in How the Gimquat Found Her Song, as Corky in Bach to the Future, as Emily in Emily Saves the Orchestra and as a hobo in Rhythm in Your Rubbish, a production she helped create. She is a highly-accomplished actor who has worked extensively in theatre, in film, and also as several animated characters on TV. She is also an experienced improviser and clown, and has written and created a number of critically-acclaimed works. Danielle has been a part of the Platypus touring company for 17 years but will never forget “the first time I heard a live orchestra playing on stage with me it literally took my breath away. I couldn’t believe how powerful the sound was. Then I thought: Wow! Best job ever!”