Coming to Wonderverse? We’ve answered all of your questions about our new interactive installation.

What is an interactive installation?

Interactive installations are participatory arts experiences for children and their families, often presented outside of traditional theatre spaces. In Wonderverse, audiences are led by performers through the installation space (a series of interconnected rooms) engaging with hands-on experiences. We encourage children to explore through play, movement, touch and vocal expression.

Patch Theatre’s other interactive installations include Superluminal and The Lighthouse – both of which received exceptional feedback from students and teachers. You can read more about the process of creating an interactive installation in this interview with Patch creators Geoff and Maddog.

Where does Wonderverse take place?

Wonderverse takes place in Bonython Hall at the University of Adelaide, located on North Terrace in Adelaide. You will enter Wonderverse though the Eastern Entrance, at the right side of Bonython Hall.

Public buses run on North Terrace and, if travelling by train, the Adelaide Railway Station is a ten-minute walk from Bonython Hall. 

Closest car parks are Wilsons Adelaide Central Car Park and UPark Rundle Street

How long does Wonderverse go for?

30 minutes

What age is Wonderverse suitable for?

Wonderverse is recommended for ages 4–12.

I have a child with sensory sensitivity – what should I know in advance? 

During the experience, the audience moves through various spaces featuring natural light, periods of darkness, UV lighting, bright moving lights, music, and recorded voices. There are no sudden or very loud sounds in the sound design or music. We recommend children who may find noisy spaces over stimulating bring earmuffs (we will have a small number available to borrow). We take a relaxed approach to audience noise and movement, and children who need a break are welcome to exit and re-enter with guidance from our front-of-house team.

Is Wonderverse wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Wonderverse is wheelchair accessible – please provide details of access requirements when booking.

What time should we arrive?

Please plan to check in with staff 15 minutes prior to your session time, during this time we will assist you to prepare for the experience.

What if I am running late?

Performances must start at the scheduled time and cannot be delayed – late attendees will miss the beginning of the performance and may not be admitted. We request that you check in with staff 15 minutes prior to your set time to prepare for the experience.

Can we take videos and photos?

Yes, we encourage you to take videos and photos without flash during the show and share them on Facebook and Instagram @patch_theatre

Is there pram/bag storage?

Yes – at check in you will be directed to a waiting bay where belongings can be left. The following items cannot be brought inside the experience – food and drink, prams, large bags.

Additional information for teachers

How many students can be booked into each session?

One class – up to 30 students (plus adults/teachers) can book into each session. The experience has been created for small groups to ensure each student can have a hands-on experience within the installation. One school can be booked per session and small classes/groups from the same school can be combined into a session (to a limit of 30 students).

How do I book in more than one class/group?

You can book all sessions on the one booking form – please select one session time per class/group. Once a session has been booked, it will no longer appear as available on the booking form.

What happens if I book multiple sessions and arrive with several classes?

New sessions start every 15 minutes, so students won’t have to wait too long.

If you are looking for other activities to do on the day of your visit you could try the following:
University of Adelaide Scavenger Hunt – a self-led scavenger hunt around the North Terrace Campus, suitable for years Pre-school-6. Allow 30–45 minutes. Maps available at Wonderverse.
State Library of South Australia
Art Gallery of South Australia - AGSA
South Australian Museum
Chihuly in the Botanic Garden
Migration Museum

Where can the bus park?

Private bus drop off is on the corner of North Terrace and Pulteney St – see map.

Is there somewhere for students to have recess/lunch?

The Goodman Crescent Lawns, to the left of Bonython Hall, or picnic tables on the plaza to the right of Bonython Hall, see map.

I have students with access requirements – what accommodations will be made?

We welcome students with access needs. Please let us know what their access requirements are when making your booking so we can make accommodations accordingly.

Please note: this installation contains haze, lighting effects and amplified music.

Are there classroom activities linking to the show?

Yes! You can see relevant activities here.

Can I change our session time/s?

You are welcome to change your session time. Please book your preferred session/s on our website and contact us to cancel your original sessions patch@patchtheatre.org.au. Please keep in mind that availability will become limited as the season books out.

Can I cancel our session?

We would be sad to have you cancel your booking but understand sometimes this is unavoidable. Please email patch@patchtheatre.org.au.

Can you book transport for my group?

Unfortunately not. You must organise your own transport to and from the experience.
If you are travelling on Adelaide Metro free travel is available with an approved group booking for primary school students with up to four adults on Monday–Friday between 9.30am and 3.00pm – find out more.

I have another question about Wonderverse

Contact us at patch@patchtheatre.org.au / 08 8470 0165 for assistance

Wonderverse 2024 is a free experience for your students, made possible thanks to the generous support of the University of Adelaide.