Entertainer Emma Memma returns to Lil’ Twilight, ensuring no child is left out of the fun
Twilight at Taronga
6 February to 7 March
To book, see Ticketek website
Little ones will be able to enjoy the fun at this year’s Twilight at Taronga event as Lil’ Twilight – a range of special morning shows designed for families with young children – is once again added to the line-up. Returning by popular demand is Emma Memma and her co-performer, deaf artist and Auslan (Australian Sign Language) teacher, Elvin Melvin, who will delight children with their inclusive storytelling, championing visual communication, creativity and connection for every child. Emma Memma is set to perform at Lil’ Twilight on 7 February.
“Our Emma Memma team always looks forward to performing for children because there is nothing quite like the way little ones respond to live theatre,” Emma Watkins (Emma Memma) tells NL. “Their excitement is so genuine and the unexpected moments make every show different. Twilight at Taronga is especially magical because families are outdoors together, relaxed, picnicking, seeing their favourite animals and just excited to join in. Seeing the children sign, dance and sing along with BB Butterfly, Waffles the wombat and Elvin Melvin amongst the beautiful Taronga Zoo, is something we treasure.
“It feels like community, connection and celebration all at once,” adds Emma, who grew up as a classical dancer and attended Sydney Film School after finishing her HSC, before stepping into life as the first female Wiggle in 2010. She launched her Emma Memma brand in 2022, one year after leaving the Wiggles, with the aim of using her voice as a ‘tool for storytelling.’ “That feels more comfortable for me than being a singer, because I love movement and expression,” she says.
Throughout her years of performing, Emma noticed that not all children and family members were able to fully participate in live shows in the same way. “While this is awesome in some ways as each journey is individual, there was some miscommunication,” Emma says. “Many children communicate visually, physically, or through alternative language pathways, yet most children’s content does rely on spoken or sung language alone.
Sons of the East will showcase their new album
“There is a plethora of research showing how movement, gesture and sign language can support early communication, comprehension and emotional regulation, not just for Deaf and hard-of-hearing children but for all children,” she says, adding that her PHD, which she did at Macquarie University, delved into ‘creative ways of integrating visual language for children’s media.’
“Integrating sign language and dance isn’t just an accessibility element though, it’s an educational tool, a storytelling device and a way of ensuring every child has an opportunity to connect with what is being presented. This is why the Emma Memma world is built on movement, visual language, rhythm and clear communication, so that families of all abilities can join in together,” adds Emma.
As if this wasn’t enough, Emma – whose first solo children’s music album was released in 2022 and won an ARIA Award for Best Children’s Album the following year – has big things lined up for 2026, calling it a ‘huge year.’ “We’re launching a brand-new theme (stay tuned) which brings a fresh musical and visual landscape to our songs, videos and live shows. The year begins with a new album release in January, followed by exclusive premiere performances and the announcement of our next national tour. It’s a vibrant next chapter, and we can’t wait to share it with families in Australia and beyond,” she adds.
Sons of the East bring soul to Sydney
Hailing from the Northern Beaches, Sons of the East are set to showcase their new album SONS along with their setlist of fan favourites when they perform at this year’s Twilight at Taronga on 13 February.
The group have their own brand of country, blues, folk-infused soul music. Inspired by Blaze Foley and Gram Parsons and the soaring three-part harmonies of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young and the Eagles, Sons of the East has played around the world, selling out O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London and Williamsburg Music Hall in New York.
Singer and guitarist Jack Rollins, singer and keyboard player Nic Johnston and banjo and guitar player Daniel Wallage’s debut album, Palomar Parade, introduced the band’s song craft and their return to Sydney looks set to cement them as a must-see at this year’s Twilight at Taronga on 13 February.
