Experience a playful, creative environment inspired by theatre and drawing at NGV International with free entry and accessible relaxed sessions.
Ongoing activity
180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006, Australia
Free
Step into a world where children become actors, audience members, and creators in a theatrical feast inspired by the Middle Ages and Rococo period. This exhibition invites young visitors to engage in imaginative play and storytelling with friends and family on a stage-like setting.
The space is designed to be calm and welcoming, perfect for children and families seeking a quieter gallery experience with reduced sensory stimuli. Activity tables feature lavish food displays arranged like still-life compositions, encouraging children to draw and imagine.
Soft, colorful cushions add a tactile element, allowing kids to build whimsical cake sculptures, blending play and performance in a unique artistic environment.
Created by contemporary artist Ragnar Kjartansson, whose lifelong connection to theatre informs this exhibition, the Children’s Play combines drawing and theatrical play to spark creativity and free expression.
This event is suitable for all ages and especially welcoming for visitors who benefit from a relaxed, sensory-friendly environment, including those with neurodivergence, disability, or chronic illness.
The sessions are free and do not require booking, making it easy for families to drop in and enjoy the experience at their own pace.
Held at NGV International on the Ground Level, this event is fully accessible to everyone. The NGV offers a range of accessible resources and facilities to ensure a comfortable visit.
The gallery is open daily from 9am to 5pm, providing ample opportunity to attend during quieter times.
For additional access information, visitors can contact NGV or visit their Access webpage.
Relaxed sessions are specifically designed to provide a quieter, less crowded gallery experience with reduced sensory stimuli.
All ages are welcome, and the environment supports children’s creativity through drawing and theatrical play.
No tickets or bookings are required, but subscribing to NGV updates is recommended to stay informed about future sessions.
This event is free to attend with no booking required, making it an accessible and budget-friendly outing for families.
Tickets for other related events are released three weeks prior, but this relaxed session welcomes walk-ins.
For general enquiries, visitors can call +61 3 8620 2222 between 9am and 5pm daily or contact NGV online.
