Snuggleplay, at the State Theatre in Perth, is one of the wonderful experiences being presented as part of this year’s Awesome Festival. Developed and run by Sensorium Theatre, it’s a beautiful interactive sensory experience for babies aged six to fifteen months.
We arrived in a dimly lit room where cushioned seating pods were arranged in a semi-circle on a soft play mat. Performers welcomed families and helped caregivers settle comfortably with their babies.
The forty-five minute experience began with a welcome song before moving into a sensory journey through the elements. Using song and movement, performers mimicked animals and encouraged babies to explore through touching, tasting, smelling and hearing. Paper, fabric, chimes and lights became part of the experience, with each baby having a performer focused on them to maximise engagement.
Forty-five minutes is the perfect length for a baby-focused session and, remarkably, we all (adults included) left feeling rejuvenated, as though we’d just had a relaxing nap.
That sense of calm is no accident. From the gentle lighting and soft voices to the slow, deliberate movements of the performers, every element has been thoughtfully designed to create a nurturing environment.
Snuggleplay has been seven years in the making, a passion project of Artistic Director Michelle Hovane and the Sensorium Theatre team. The company creates custom sensory theatre experiences for young people with access needs, developing its programs in collaboration with the intended audience.
Based on Somatic Movement, Snuggleplay has been refined and tested over the years before arriving at Awesome Festival. You can see the thoughtfulness in every detail, from the dedicated pram parking and baby change table to the comfortable, pod-like seating designed to support caregivers.
I’m told the session has been described as a “big warm hug”. It’s hard to think of a better description. We left feeling calm, relaxed and, most importantly, nurtured.
Snuggleplay is currently sold out but keep an eye out on the Awesome Festival website for any cancellations.