The Whale | Joondalup Festival 2026

Imagine standing beneath a giant whale floating through the air, its vast body gliding gracefully above you and discovering that you help bring it to life. That’s the magic of The Whale, a larger-than-life puppet experience at Tom Simpson Park. 

Created by Australia’s puppetry superstars Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, this is not a show you simply watch. The enormous whale marionette moves on specially designed strings and audiences are invited to help control it alongside professional puppeteers. Working together, you animate the whale’s movements, while surprise sea creatures appear from unexpected places to delight onlookers. 

With beautiful original music, poems, whale facts and stories told in children’s voices, The Whale transports families into an immersive underwater world. Through sound, movement and participation, audiences experience the grace of these ocean giants and learn about their vital role in keeping our oceans healthy and how we can help protect them for future generations. 

Gentle, inspiring and hands-on, The Whale is suitable for all ages. Drop in for ten minutes or return across the four days, there’s always something new to discover. 

Venue and access 

Tom Simpson Park is a scenic beachside park on Oceanside Promenade in Mullaloo, located right next to Mullaloo Beach. Free parking is available in two large car parks within Tom Simpson Park. As this is a popular beach location, early arrival is recommended, particularly on sunny days. Public transport access is available via the Yanchep line train to Joondalup or Whitfords Station, followed by bus route 460 to Oceanside Promenade.

This outdoor experience takes place across grassy areas and paved pathways, with plenty of space to sit, watch or join in.  Picnic shelters, BBQ facilities and shaded spots are available throughout the park. 

Suitable for all ages and abilities - the professional puppeteers can adapt activities to suit you.

Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for grass and paths are recommended.