Suffolk Libraries returns to First Light Festival by offering songs, storytimes and silent discos on the beach!

June 19, 2024
June 18, 2024
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James Powell

Suffolk Libraries will again be taking part in the First Light Festival in Lowestoft, offering a range of engaging and free activity as part of the Cosmic Pirates teepee on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June.

A packed programme of activities has been arranged, many of which will be supported by BSL interpreters to make them accessible for anyone with a hearing impairment.

Sally Garwood, Suffolk Libraries Senior Creative Producer, said:

“This year we’re all about immersive storytelling! Stories are not just confined to books, they are alive in the stories around us. We’re really looking forward to showcasing some amazing local theatre and performance led artists and we can’t wait to share these pieces of work with children and families at the festival.  

“Our line-up includes a return from our Storyteller in Residence 2023, Kirsty Tallent, who is performing her show ‘Life’s A Beach’, about friendship and finding a home. ‘The Misbehaving Letters’ celebrates the unique abilities of dyslexic learners. And we’ll also be joined by poet Raymond Antrobus, who will introduce two pieces of spoken word ‘Home’ & ‘Colours’, about finding belonging and individuality, performed by a young female led poetry collective from Gainsborough Community Library in Ipswich.  

“As always, we’ll have readings of classic tales such as The Gruffalo and We’re Going on A Bear Hunt for parents and carers with babies and very small children to relax to and enjoy listening. We have a joyous programme for all ages so please do come and join us, we can’t wait to see you!”

The full schedule for the events is as follows:

Saturday 22 June:

  • 13:00 – 13:45: Song Time on the Beach
  • 14:00 – 14:45: Life’s A Beach by Kirsty Tallent (BSL)
  • 15:00 – 15:45: Song Time on the Beach
  • 16:00 – 16:45: Winter Moon by Lorna Heap (BSL)
  • 17:00 – 17:45: Bedtime Stories on the Beach (BSL)
  • 17:45 – 18:00: Bedtime Beats Chill Out Zone

Day programme ends

19:00 to 19:30 & 20:00 to 20:30 – Seconds of Sound, Nature Silent Disco

Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature with a relaxing nature silent disco. Whether you’re listening solo or along with family and friends, join fellow nature lovers for this relaxing experience which will uplift your spirit and ignite your audio senses. This event is suitable for children aged 11+ accompanied by an adult.  There are only 30 places available so please arrive on time to ensure you get a headset.

This activity is provided as part of the Seconds of Sound project created by Suffolk Libraries’ Environmentalist in Residence Martin Scaiff. Martin’s role is to explore environmental responsibility with the community, using creativity as an instrument to inspire change in ways that are accessible to all. Martin’s residency is generously supported by Arts Council England.

Sunday 23 June:

  • 10:00 – 10.45: Terrible Horses by Raymond Antrobus (BSL)
  • 10:45 – 11:00: Home & Colours performed by Gainsborough Library Girls (BSL)
  • 11:15 – 12:00: Life’s A Beach by Kirsty Tallent (BSL)
  • 12:00 – 12:45: Song Time on the Beach
  • 13:00 – 13.45: Lunchtime Lullabies Chill Out Zone
  • 14:00 – 14.45: Story Time on the Beach (BSL)
  • 15:00 – 15.45: The Misbehaving Letters by Layla Bradbeer (BSL)
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