🎭 The Three Little Pigs
🗓️ Opens 9 July, for the school holidays
📍 National Theatre
🎟️ booktickets.com.au
In this episode of the Showtime podcast, Andrew sits down with the vibrant trio of Zack, Isabelle and Ben, who star in the children’s musical The Three Little Pigs by Broadway creatives Stiles and Drewe. What follows is a playful and thoughtful conversation about the joys, surprises and challenges of performing in a musical that reimagines one of the world’s best-known fairy tales for a modern family audience. The actors share what makes this show stand out from other versions of the story, beginning with the depth of the characters and the way the musical invites audiences to see these little pigs not just as storybook symbols, but as fully formed individuals with big personalities and strong family bonds.
Zack plays Q, the youngest pig, whose cleverness and flair for interior design make him more than just the builder of the brick house. He talks about the fun of bringing this character to life, especially for children who are often vocal and unpredictable during the show. His background in stand-up comedy comes in handy as he reads the room, responds in the moment and keeps the energy flowing. Isabelle plays Bee, the middle sibling and an environmentally aware pig who is learning to find her voice. With her background in songwriting, she brings a layered sensitivity to the role and reflects on how important it is to give young audiences characters they can relate to. Ben plays Barbecue, the eldest brother, who presents as the macho one of the trio but reveals warmth, love and a protective streak as the story unfolds. Together, they explore the dynamics of sibling rivalry, self-discovery and cooperation.
One of the biggest takeaways from the conversation is the genuine joy they feel performing for young audiences. Kids do not hold back. They laugh loudly, ask questions mid-show, and often predict the next plot twist out loud. For actors, this honesty is refreshing and energising. It pushes them to stay present and connect deeply with the material and the audience. Rather than delivering the same performance every time, they learn to adapt and respond, which keeps the show fresh. The cast talks about how this feedback loop between performer and audience is particularly strong in children’s theatre, and how that connection makes every show feel like an event.
Music plays a huge part in building that connection. The actors all sing, often to their own surprise, belting out catchy numbers that help move the story forward while deepening character development. Songs like Q’s ode to interior design not only add humour but also give the youngest pig a distinct identity that goes beyond his architectural skills. Likewise, Bee’s environmentally conscious journey introduces themes of sustainability in a way that is subtle, accessible and entertaining. These musical moments add a layer of theatricality that elevates the experience from a simple retelling to something much richer.
Another important point they discuss is the show’s respect for its audience. Too often, children’s entertainment talks down to kids, assuming they need constant jokes or chaos to stay engaged. But The Three Little Pigs takes a different approach. It treats children as thoughtful, curious people who are capable of understanding complex emotions and learning valuable lessons. The actors explain that by grounding their performances in truth and sincerity, they create a space where kids feel seen, heard and involved. That authenticity is what makes the show resonate.
The podcast also highlights how each cast member’s unique skill set enhances the show. Zack’s comedy background sharpens the timing and brings a natural sense of fun and irreverence. Isabelle’s musical training adds depth to the songs and helps shape the emotional arc of the characters. Ben’s warmth and physicality anchor the trio and give Barbecue a presence that balances strength with vulnerability. Their individual talents mesh beautifully to bring the story to life in a way that feels cohesive, dynamic and joyful.
The final message of the musical, and of the podcast episode, centres on family and working together. Despite their differences and occasional squabbles, the pigs support one another when it counts. That sense of unity is what helps them triumph. For the young audience watching, that message is powerful. It shows that strength lies not just in bricks and plans, but in kindness, teamwork and belief in each other. It is a story that feels both timeless and timely, offering kids and parents alike a reminder of what really matters.
What stands out most in this podcast episode is the passion the actors have for their craft and the care with which they approach their work. They are not just putting on a show. They are building an experience that will stay with their young audiences long after the final curtain. Through their performances, they are helping to shape the next generation of theatre lovers, storytellers and creative thinkers.
The Three Little Pigs may be a story that everyone knows, but in the hands of these three performers and this production team, it becomes something fresh, funny and full of heart. The podcast offers a glimpse into the thoughtful process behind the show and a reminder that children’s theatre, when done well, is one of the most rewarding and meaningful forms of live performance. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or just a lover of good storytelling, this episode is a celebration of what happens when talented artists pour their energy into entertaining, educating and inspiring young minds.
