Sunday 9 July 2017

A summer filled with fairy tales, myths and legends – so read all about it

AFTER its first summer arts festival was declared a resounding success, The Witham is making Summer of Stories an annual event.

Last year's festival, which celebrated the work of Roald Dahl, involved theatre workshops, a flash-mob, family fun days, shop window displays and a story writing contest run by the Teesdale Mercury which was judged by top author Anne Fine. 

The Witham's idea was to involve the whole town. This year's Summer of Stories, which will run throughout the six-week school holidays, will be themed around fairy tales, myths and legends.

Sarah Gent, from the Witham, said the Summer of Stories festival was a way the arts centre could reach out to the community – and be part of it.

Ms Gent said: “With an increase in uptake for theatre, workshops and films, The Witham is in a strong position to create a wider arts offering. We are seeking to push beyond arts events.”

The programme includes:

A weekly film throughout the summer holidays, with activities to run alongside them.

Weekly arts workshops including some themed around moving monsters and magical maps.

Cookery workshops with kids – from cooking fairy cakes to making Herculean sandwiches, children will be encouraged to get creative with food.

Story sessions in The Witham’s storytelling chair, alongside reading sessions in the café and on the streets of Barnard Castle.

Working with Barnard Castle Library to engage readers.

Illustrator workshops.

An artist working with children and older people – the works will go on display in the gallery.

A Summer of Stories book for people to jot down reasons why stories matter to them and for them to reveal their favourites

Two theatre productions centred around fairy tales, myths and legends.

A writing competition.

Working with schools and town businesses.

Ms Gent said: “Last year was such as success and were can’t wait to get everyone involved again this year.”

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