Suffolk Libraries is very excited to introduce its new and exciting ‘In Residence’ programme; an opportunity for artists to explore and create in collaboration with libraries over a six-month period.
The first artist to join this new programme is new Storyteller in Residence Kirsty Tallent.
Kirsty will be working in collaboration with libraries across the county until October, to highlight the power of storytelling and to connect people to a diverse range of stories in non-conventional ways.
Kirsty is a multi-sensory theatre maker and facilitator born and bred in Ipswich. Kirsty specialises in creating accessible work which is enjoyable and accessible for young people with disabilities and additional needs. Kirsty’s previous shows include the Arts Council-funded shows 'The Green Children' and '1001 Fireflies', both of which focus on celebrating difference, challenging social stereotypes and the environment.
As well as working with libraries, Kirsty will also be supporting Suffolk Libraries’ presence at the First Light Festival and Latitude.
Kirsty says:
“I am so thrilled to be the Storyteller in Residence for Suffolk Libraries and I can’t wait to get involved in regular groups at the library and to introduce some new things too! Stylistically my work is bold, fresh, messy, and relevant, with a core ethos of engaging minority audiences and using the arts as a catalyst for change.
“During my residency I will be working on my new show, WHALE which is now entering the research and development process. It’s based on a crazy story about 17 killer whales getting stuck in the River Orwell nearly 500 years ago. I have been mad about the story for years and it will be a fun and inclusive way for young people across Suffolk to get excited about local heritage."
Sally Garwood, Senior Creative Producer at Suffolk Libraries added:
“We are so excited to welcome Kirsty. Her work is curious and imaginative and we are looking forward to seeing how libraries influence and shape the work that she creates. At Suffolk Libraries we are passionate about literacy, and fostering a love of books and reading, but storytelling is not confined to books and words, stories are present in every aspect of our lives, in the anecdotes we tell our friends, the films we watch and our everyday experiences.”
Tony Casement, Head of Creative Communities at New Wolsey Theatre speaks highly of Kirsty, saying:
“I’ve worked with Kirsty Tallent on a variety of arts-based projects and have always found her to be creative and inclusive. She is compassionate, approachable and kind and her work is playful, inquisitive and collaborative.”
The ‘In Residence’ project is part of Suffolk Libraries established Arts Programme which is funded by Arts Council England. The next in the series will be an Environmentalist in Residence joining in the autumn.
