Beyond the Books

Projects and Fans

Rapunzel’s Sister Ballet

This was premiered by the Kew School of Dance (KSOD) in August 2019 at the Darebin Arts Centre, Preston, Victoria. 

In collaboration with the teachers and students from KSOD, songs composed by Angie Coffey and recorded by Simon Lewis, a stage adaption of RS was created. Check the music section on our website to learn more about the songs.

The storyline was modified and new props and costumes were hand made. The music accompanied original choreography by Alice Hobden and Anton Cleaver-Wilkinson. It was a truly inspiring and beautiful experience!

Photos below taken by Anton Cleaver-Wilkinson

 Fans

The first time I saw a child’s face light up with joy when they saw the book was a unique and humbling experience. We have had so much encouraging feedback from both adults and children.

Olivia, age 4 (Rapunzel’s Sister)

Olivia, age 4 (Rapunzel’s Sister)

 

Drawing by Amelia, age 13

Drawing by Amelia, age 13

Diorama by Zoe G, age 10

Diorama by Zoe G, age 10

 

Crochet Magnolia by Alessia

Drawing by Maya, Age 8

 

Education 

For examinations: Rapunzel Sister has been used as an educational tool, as part of the Trinity College London Exam for the sight reading component.

Rebecca Hutchins - Theatrical Studio, Bundaberg, 2019.

For children with reading challenges:

“I honestly did love reading your book with Milla and we loved the ending and definitely wanted more. We are waiting for the next book though. It was so well written that I forgot I was reading your book and Milla and I were just well immersed in the story. With Milla having Dyslexia I am always looking for a good read for her that we can share. I usually end up reading to her so she would have that special feeling of being in a story.”

Natasha, mother of Milla who has dyslexia, 2019.

Education - Author Visits 

To date, Zoe and I have presented 14 times. We love talking to the students - they have always been enthusiastic, engaged and attentive - an absolute joy and privilege.

“We were fortunate to have Belinda Lui & Zoe Reddaway present to our Junior School students on the writing process associated with the Rapunzel's Sister Series. They certainly met the needs of this age group, ensuring that students were both interested and entertained. Belinda & Zoe are passionate and talented speakers, they encouraged our students to challenge themselves to actively engage with literature as both readers and writers. The presentation was very well received, feedback from staff and students has been very positive.”

Julie Purcell, Head of Library, Ruyton Girl’s School, August 2022

Research - Honours Thesis

Hybrid Publishing in Australia: Where does it fit?

Jamie Coope, Curtin University, 2022

Interviewed by Jamie as part of his Honours Thesis.

Testimonials - Music Production

I have found working on this project highly rewarding and immensely enjoyable. As with all artistic endeavours worthy of great merit, the challenges involved are always welcome and encourage one to greater heights in order to ensure that the result is greater than the sum of the parts.

I love this project, its democratic work ethic, Belinda’s vivid and touching stories, Angie Coffey’s inspiring compositions and the contributions of its inclusive and diverse  team.

It is my hope that I may continue to contribute to its vision.”  

Joe Chindamo, OAM, Composer, February 2022

 

 

I had a great time taking part in the Rapunzel's Sister session with Angie, Daniel and Belinda.

What a pleasure to play the cello line for such a high quality soundtrack and with a team that understands the process so well.

All the very best for the ongoing journey of this project.”

David Berlin, Principal Cellist, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, March 2022

 

Recording with Belinda, Angie and Daniel has been such a joyful, collaborative experience.

I feel very lucky to have been asked to record some of their original songs, and be involved in a video clip for one too. Being offered ongoing, paid work during the past few years of uncertainty has been really great. Especially knowing that they are constantly providing local musicians with on-going work too.”

Harriett Allcroft, Jazz Vocalist and Vocal Coach, March 2022

 

My brother Leonard and I have recently recorded a piece of music inspired by the series of books written by Belinda Lui and Zoe Reddaway. After one year of delays due to the pandemic we were finally able to meet at Head Gap studios in Melbourne for a day of recording. The process was very well planned and delivered wonderful results on the day. We had been communicating about this project for quite a while and all aspects were covered by Belinda with great professionalism and devotion to high quality artistic product.

It’s rare for a multi-platform project such as this to see the light of day and it has been an honour to play our part alongside so many wonderful Australian artists who have produced such beautiful work for this production - a testament to Belinda!”

Slava Grigoryan, Classical Guitarist, April 2022.

'“A stunning re-imagining of a classic tale Rapunzel and its new characters. Belinda Lui captures a timelessness but somehow a meaningful version of a story we can relate to. I love this revival and have so enjoyed not only reading these stories but playing and recording the amazing music that goes with it written by Angie Coffey.

Sarah Curro, Violinist, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, February, 2024

Endorsement

This magnificent novel is a must-read for young readers. The author's talent for writing, their ability to capture children's interests, and their use of exciting twists and turns throughout, will hook readers from start to finish. Fairy tale lovers will find plenty of enchantment in this novel, the third in the Rapunzel trilogy but I won't spoil the fun by revealing too much. I'll just say that the mysterious Draevon is a character you won't soon forget. The trilogy is a must-read for anyone who loves fantasy novels, fairytales, or princess stories that transcend the genre's typical message about finding love with a rich and handsome prince. The magical elements, the jaw-dropping twist at the end, and all the action make this a book children will not want to put down.”

Louise Jane, CEO, The golden wizard book prize, 2023

Radio Interviews

We have loved being on 3MBS (103.5FM) as part of their Arts Weekly and live to air Music in Melbourne programs!

Arts Weekly shows dated 11th March 2023, 1st April 2023 and 18th November 2023:

Music in Melbourne show dated 24th June 2023:

Thank you to the team at 3MBS for all your ongoing support 🙏

Rapunzel’s Sister - The Play…

A new play adapted by Nick Waxman.

Performance date…October 2024 - Watch this space!

Rapunzel’s Sister - Music Collaborations with…

Orchestra 2025…watch this space!

 Other projects

I dream of other dance and vocal numbers, music videos, musicals, plays, films series… Anything is possible!

If you are interested in collaborating, get in touch.