A popular koala story from the world of Rachel Bright and Jim Field, The Koala Who Could has now been adapted for the stage and is touring the UK in 2026. The show is directed by Emma Earle, a creative spirit with a unique approach to storytelling who has managed to convey Kevin the Koala’s tale with charm, bringing an engaging and fun theatre experience to little ones and their grown ups. Let’s take a look at the woman behind the show and how she brought Kevin’s story to the stage. 

An Exciting and Varied Career 

Emma Earle trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and National Theatre Studio. After graduating, she taught drama at an international school in Malawi, during which time she set up a community theatre company named The Mechanicals. They performed open air Shakespeare productions.

As an experienced director and workshop facilitator back in the UK, she has built a reputation for crafting emotionally resonant experiences for families. Her work includes ‘Hansel and Gretel’ (Northern Stage) and numerous immersive events for Les Enfants Terribles, including ‘Adventures in Wonderland’, ‘Dinner at the Twits’ and ‘Ernest and the Pale Moon’.

Earle co-founded Pins and Needles Productions in 2009 with designer Zoe Squire, and has delivered 23 national and international productions to date. In 2012, the company adapted and presented the world premiere of Raymond Briggs’ ‘Father Christmas’ (Lyric Hammersmith), and later adapted ‘Oi Frog & Friends’, which received an Olivier nomination in 2020. Her experience made her the perfect choice for the child-centred koala show, The Koala Who Could, which blends music, puppetry and playful design to create a world that young audiences can easily connect with.

Bringing Kevin the Koala to the Stage 

In Rachel Bright and Jim Field’s imaginative tale, Kevin the koala is keen to stay where he knows he is safe - high in his eucalyptus tree. But when disaster strikes, he has to learn to embrace change with the help of his furry friends. Earle’s adaptation stays true to the book’s central theme, expanding it with songs, dance and interactive moments.  

Critical Praise of The Koala Who Could 

The Koala Who Could has been praised by industry critics, with All That Dazzles describing the show as ‘full of sass, humour and undeniable charm’. Meanwhile, the Northern Arts Review commended the production’s ‘lively set and colourful lighting, the punchy songs that seasoned the performance, and…the seemingly unending enthusiasm of all three cast members’.

Join Kevin and his friends

If you’re a fan of Rachel Bright and Jim Field’s books, why not head to a venue near you to enjoy The Koala Who Could live on stage? Join Kevin and his friends as they discover the perks of trying new things and enjoy a high energy show that’s designed to engage kids aged three and up. If your little ones aren’t sure what to expect from this cuddly koala, reading the book beforehand will help them understand the story. Browse performance dates and book your tickets today.