Staffordshire Libraries are kicking off a celebration of stories and sport this summer with a lively and family-friendly performance touring libraries across the county.
Footy Fairy Tales, touring as part of the National Year of Reading and the Summer Reading Challenge, blends the excitement of the football pitch with the wonder of classic storytelling. Audiences will meet unforgettable characters, enjoy live music and join in with super songs in a show designed to inspire a love of reading and creativity in children and families.
Delivered in partnership with Yarnbird Arts, the show reimagines familiar tales with a sporty twist, from determined young striker Cindy-Ella chasing her dreams to Little Red Riding Hoodie facing unexpected challenges on her journey. Along the way, audiences will help defeat a grumpy troll who insists “No Ball Games Allowed!”, proving that stories, like football, are for everyone.
Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“We’re delighted to bring Footy Fairy Tales to libraries across Staffordshire this summer.
“It’s a fantastic way to celebrate reading, creativity and community, while encouraging families to get involved in the Summer Reading Challenge.
“The tour is part of a wider summer programme in libraries across the county, helping children stay engaged with reading during the holidays in fun and imaginative ways.”
Sophia Hatfield, Co-Director of Yarnbird Arts and the writer and performer of Footy Fairy Tales, said:
"I'm so excited that Footy Fairy Tales will be making its way across Staffordshire Libraries this summer. As a storyteller and performer, there's nothing I love more than welcoming audiences in their local library.
“This summer, in the National Year of Reading, we're joining the Go All In campaign to encourage young people to enjoy more stories, no matter what they're into. This show is a great activity for young readers, footy enthusiasts and families with children of all ages.
“Expect super songs, live music and a big dose of football fever with a fairy tale twist. This is great live theatre, right on your doorstep, in your friendly local library."
The dates and locations of the Footy Fairy Tales shows are:
Monday 10 August
• Lichfield Library – 10:30am
• Tamworth Library – 2:30pm
Tuesday 11 August
• Newcastle Library – 10:30am
• Kidsgrove Library – 2:30pm
Wednesday 12 August
• Uttoxeter Library – 10:30am
• Burton Library – 2:30pm
Thursday 13 August
• Rugeley Library – 10:30am
• Cannock Library – 2:30pm
Tuesday 18 August
• Codsall Library – 10:30am
• Perton Library – 2:30pm
Wednesday 19 August
• Stone Library – 10:30am
• Stafford Library – 2:30pm
Ticket prices are £3 for the first child, 50p for any siblings, and adults and children under 3 years old go free. Contact your local library directly to book in advance. Duration of performances are 1 hour.
For further information about tour dates, visit the show’s webpage. Visit the Staffordshire County Council website to find your local library’s contact details.
Ends
