Humans of Hyperdome: Fairy Ani

Humans of Hyperdome is a series celebrating the incredible people who make Hyperdome more than just a shopping destination.

From retailers and community partners to familiar faces behind the scenes, we’ll be sharing the stories of the people who bring our centre to life.

Through a series of conversations, we’ll uncover their journeys, what inspires them, what they love most about what they do, and the impact they have on our community every day.

To launch the series, we’re delighted to introduce Fairy Ani, a much-loved member of the Hyperdome community who has been creating magical moments for local families through Learn N Play since 2019.

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a little about Fairy Ani?

Hi! I’m Anne-Marie Maurer, although most families know me as Fairy Ani.

I’m the creator of The Kreative Fairies and have been working with children through music, performing arts and early childhood education for over 30 years.

Every Tuesday and Thursday you’ll find me at Hyperdome for Learn N Play with The Kreative Fairies.

My interactive 45-minute sessions are designed for children aged 0-7 and their parents or caregivers, using music, puppets, storytelling, movement and imaginative play to help children learn while having fun.

How did your journey as a fairy entertainer begin?

I’ve loved singing, dancing and performing since I was six years old. After studying acting, voice production, music and early childhood education, I spent many years teaching children before opening The Kreative Kidz School of Performing Arts in 2003.

When my own children were little, I wanted to create the kind of classes I wished had existed for them – fun, educational and filled with imagination.

That passion for inspiring children through creativity eventually led me to where I am today.

What inspired you to create The Kreative Fairies?

My husband has always joked that I was “off with the fairies”… so I decided to join them! 😂

After having our three boys, our daughter Amalia came along and brought a little extra sparkle into our lives.

When she was three years old, we created The Kreative Fairies together, and that’s how Fairy Amalia and Fairy Ani were born.

I wanted to create a magical world where children could learn through music, movement, storytelling and imagination while making wonderful memories with their families.

All of our music is professionally recorded by us and includes both original songs and fairy-inspired arrangements of well-known classics.

Fairy Amalia still joins me during the school holidays, and some of my favourite moments are when we perform together.

What do you love most about bringing magic to children and families?

Seeing children light up with excitement never gets old.

Watching a shy child find the confidence to join in, hearing everyone singing together and seeing families laugh and create memories is incredibly rewarding.

I also love that parents, grandparents and caregivers become part of the fun. Creating moments that everyone can enjoy together is something really special.

Do you have a favourite memory from performing at Hyperdome?

One of my favourite things has been watching families grow over the years.

Some of the children who first came along as babies are now in primary school, and a few are even in high school.

Many have since returned with their younger brothers and sisters.

Seeing familiar faces every week and being part of so many childhood memories is something I’ll never take for granted.

What’s the most rewarding part of what you do?

Knowing that I’ve made a positive difference in a child’s day.

Whether it’s helping a shy child find their confidence, hearing families singing our songs at home or simply seeing smiling faces as they leave, those moments remind me why I love what I do.

What do you hope children take away after meeting you?

I hope every child leaves with a smile, happy memories and the confidence to be creative, curious and completely themselves.

If they go home singing one of our songs, using their imagination and believing in a little bit of magic, then I’ve done my job.

What does being part of the Hyperdome community mean to you?

It means so much to me.

Hyperdome has been my Tuesday and Thursday home since 2019, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of such a welcoming community.

One of the things I love most is walking through Hyperdome dressed as a fairy.

People don’t usually expect to see a fairy while they’re out shopping! If someone smiles at me, I’ll always smile back and say, “Good morning.” I love how such a simple gesture can brighten someone’s day.

I’ve had the privilege of watching so many children and families grow over the years.

Watching little ones grow from babies into school-aged children, and now even teenagers, has been incredibly special.

Being able to create magical moments and lifelong memories for them is something I’ll always treasure.