When the council announces plans to cut down her favourite tree, Bettie is devastated. At home, she struggles to manage her emotions and doesn’t think of herself as brave. But the forest needs her now more than ever.

The night before the woodcutters come, Bettie meets the bold and enigmatic Paida Moyo. Their chance encounter sparks an extraordinary journey of friendship and self-discovery. Can Bettie and Paida rally to save the woodlands before it’s too late? Will Bettie’s newfound courage be enough to protect the critter crew and her beloved trees? And how might the forest return the favour?

Written by Tatenda Naomi Matsvai (Hot Orange), Brave Bettie is a lyrical and magical woodland adventure, brought to life with poetry, songs, live music and stories that explore their home heritage in Zimbabwe. This playful yet powerful production looks at resilience, self-belief, social activism and the environment, offering an urgent message for young audiences.

Co-produced by Half Moon and Z-arts, this exciting partnership unites two of the UK’s leading children’s theatre companies to create an unforgettable experience for young audiences and families. Previous co-productions include award-winning productions of Dust and Grandad Anansi, which tours again in autumn 2025.

Brave Bettie was developed with support from the Leche Trust and the Austin & Hope Pilkington Trust.

Recommended for ages 3-8 years old

Run Time: 50 minutes (no interval)

 ★★★★ “This enchanting show is a must-see for families, offering a delightful blend of humour, empathy and imaginative storytelling. A beautiful example of reimagining a difficult world through friendship and fun to make it a better place… It has deep questions woven in, which definitely prompt further conversation”
Everything Theatre on Ten in the Bed, a Half Moon production

“A colourful, amazing production”
The Guardian on Grandad Anansi, a Half Moon and Z-arts co-production

★★★★ “An utterly enjoyable production... Dust deals with a number of difficult emotions, but with such a light touch it’s suitable for children of any age, including the adult kind… A captivating, imaginative production that uses tiny particles to make big things possible”
Everything Theatre on Dust, a Half Moon and z-Arts co-production.

Off West End Award Winner, Best Show for 5-11s.