Michael Rosen, Julian Clary and Harry Potter exhibition coming to Loughborough for Loogabarooga Festival 2016. loogabarooga-logoThe programme of events for this year’s Loogabarooga Festival of children’s illustrated literature includes many new highlights for families and children who love reading to see and hear from 19-24 October 2016 at venues across Loughborough. Performers, workshops and exhibitions at Loogabarooga Festival 2016 include Michael Rosen, best-selling children’s author and poet, and former Children’s Laureate; comedian, entertainer and writer, Julian Clary reading from his latest book, The Bolds To The Rescue; and the Illustrating Harry Potter exhibition at Charnwood Museum, an illustrated reimagining of the blockbuster classic, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Tickets for all of the free and paid events can be booked online at loogabarooga.com. Copies of the free programme will be available to collect from Loughborough Town Hall, Charnwood Borough Council offices, Charnwood Museum and venues across Loughborough and Charnwood. Following the success of the inaugural Festival in 2015, this year’s programme will also include free creative drop-in workshops, storytelling sessions, advice on how to write and illustrate your own book, with appearances from some of the nation’s favourite children’s authors and illustrators. Nicky Morgan, MP for Loughborough said: "This year's Loogabarooga Festival promises to be better than ever. The programme is packed full of exciting events and Loughborough is looking forward to welcoming some very special guests. There is a real buzz around the 2016 festival and I am looking forward to taking part in what promises to be a thrilling line-up." For all of the latest information, follow the Festival on Facebook at www.facebook.com/loogabarooga or on Twitter @loogabarooga16 ______________________________________________________   petworth-lit-logoAward-winning family theatre company Story Pocket Theatre is performing at Petworth Festival’s 6th annual Literary Weekend on Saturday 5 November at 10.30am in the Leconfield Hall, Petworth. The written and spoken word are celebrated in an enchanting performance of Storyteller Storyteller; genuine family fun that culminates in a feast of clowning, physical silliness and magical storytelling without words. Tickets cost £8 for adults and £6 for young people and children aged 18 years and under. Stewart Collins, Artistic Director of Petworth Festival commented, “The addition of Story Pocket Theatre to our literary repertoire is a brand new take on our policy of engaging with all age groups and the family audience. Suitable for all ages from 3 to 103, Storyteller Storyteller underlines the Festival’s commitment to engaging young people in an educational, inspiring and highly entertaining way. Established just three years ago in 2013, Story Pocket Theatre was set up from a passion to produce beautiful, wonderful and magical theatre for families and to keep the classic stories alive in an inventive and exciting way. The company has received various accolades. They were winners of the Primary Times Children’s Choice Award, 2014 and the ThreeWeeks Editor’s Choice Award at the Edinburgh Fringe 2015. Petworth Festival Literary Weekend is a unique opportunity to see and meet a wealth of literary greats, up and coming authors as well as high-profile luminaries with fascinating life stories to share. For more information call 01798 343055 or email info@petworthfestival.org.uk. Tickets on sale by telephone 01798 344576 or on-line at petworthfestival.org.uk. ______________________________________________________ BridLit Kids at the Lyric Theatre, Bridport - Saturday 12 November Following the success of last year’s event, BridLit Kids returns to the Lyric Theatre with an extended programme to appeal to a wide age range, where we hope there will be something for everyone: bridlit         10 - 11am (3 - 7 yrs) -  The boundless creative energy and fun from storyteller Martin Maudesely and musician and songster Declan Duffy will entertain the youngest among us (and the young at heart!). Children £3/ Adults Free   12 - 1pm (8 yrs and upwards) - Charlie Fuge will lead an illustration workshop (booking recommended) bringing a wealth of talent and experience from his own wide ranging work to guide young hands. Pencil and sketchpad included. Supported by Bridport Arts and Crafts. £5   2 - 3pm (8 yrs and upwards) - Best-selling author Angie Sage of the popular Septimus Heap series, will introduce the latest addition to TodHunter Moon books. A fantastic opportunity to meet a world class author with time for questions and answers after. Children £3/Adults Free   We want to put children’s literature firmly on the Bridport map so come along and celebrate the world of magic and the imagination in this fabulous day of words, pictures, stories and song.   Full programme information Bridlit.com Tickets: Bridport Tourist Information Centre 01308 424901