Sea of Light at Abbotsford Convent - A Magical School Holiday Adventure for Kids and Families

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Thu 09 Apr 2026 - Sun 12 Apr 2026

These April school holidays, step into a shimmering ocean of colour, sound and imagination as Sea of Light transforms the Abbotsford Convent's historic Oratory into an immersive world of light.

Created by internationally renowned Patch Theatre, this interactive installation invites children to become artists of light. The 30-minute experience has wowed audiences across Australia and internationally and now lands at the Convent for four days only.



Equipped with a UV torch, Sea of Light invites kids to:
• Paint and stencil with light across the ‘sea floor’
• Steer glowing ships that leave luminous trails in their wake
• Reveal hidden artworks by contemporary Aboriginal visual artist Elizabeth Close, exploring deep connections between land, sea, earth and waterways

Accompanied by a gentle, immersive soundscape by First Nations composer Rob Edwards, Sea of Light is a calming yet awe-inspiring experience designed especially for children of all ages, but especially suited to those aged 3-10 years.



Make it a day out with a picnic lunch on the Convent's heritage lawns, a wander around the open studios and shops or a leisurely coffee or bite to eat at one of several family-friendly cafes onsite.

As one of only three arts and cultural organisations on Australia’s National Heritage List, Abbotsford Convent provides a stunning backdrop for this contemporary digital experience - where history, creativity and technology meet.

Justine Hyde, CEO of the Abbotsford Convent Foundation, said the program reflects the Convent's commitment to creativity and lifelong learning. "Sea of Light is a beautiful example of how Abbotsford Convent continues to evolve as a place of hands-on learning and cultural participation.

"Bringing this innovative digital installation into a 160-year-old heritage site highlights the way we activate our historic spaces for new generations.

"Through immersive contemporary programming, Abbotsford Convent continues to connect past and present."

Patch Theatre Artistic Director, Geoff Cobham, said: "Having toured Sea of Light across Australia, and even to Saudi Arabia, it is exciting to now be bringing the show to the iconic Abbotsford Convent. Like all our productions, it places children at the centre of the experience, encouraging imagination, wonder and discovery."

Event Details

• What: Sea of Light @ Abbotsford Convent
• When: April school holidays, 9-12 April
• Session times: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm (30-minute sessions)
• Where: Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers St (The Oratory room)
• Best for: Children 3+ and their families (all ages welcome)
• Note: All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets

• Tickets: $19–$24
• Family ticket: $50

Spots are limited and sessions are expected to book out quickly.

Book now at tickets.abbotsfordconvent.com.au/Events/Sea-of-Light

Plan your visit at patchtheatre.org.au/sea-of-light

Give your kids a school holiday experience they’ll never forget - a magical journey of light, play and discovery at Sea of Light.

Discover budget-friendly ways to enjoy Abbotsford Convent these April school holidays!

Just 4km from Melbourne's CBD and open 365 days a year, the Convent blends nature, culture and play in one easy day out.

Pack a picnic for the Heritage Lawn, explore Ben Gunn's surreal sculptures, and step into the immersive Sea of Light experience.

Browse Dragonfly Toys, visit Her Place Women's Museum Australia, follow the historic Cork Oak Path to the Yarra, and even pop next door to Collingwood Children’s Farm.

With free entry, self-guided tours, weekend plant shopping at The Holy Grail, kid-friendly pottery classes and complimentary tennis courts, Abbotsford Convent offers an affordable, memory-making day for the whole family.

Follow @AbbotsfordConvent Facebook + Instagram for all the latest.

About the Abbotsford Convent
Located four kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD and spread over 6 acres. Abbotsford Convent is Australia’s largest multi-arts precinct. 11 buildings, over 160 years old, are home to 150+ creatives in 121 studios, 31 indoor and outdoor venues, a gallery, four cafes, a radio station, a school, and expansive historic gardens. The Convent is open 365 days per year and entry is completely free.

About Patch Theatre
Founded on Kaurna Yerta, South Australia, in 1972, Patch Theatre has produced more than 120 unique works and received numerous awards. The company is internationally recognised for creating visually captivating performances that place children at the centre of the experience.

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