Spark Festival 2014

www.sparkfestival.co.uk

19 May - 1 June 2014

For children 0 - 13 years

Partners

We would like to thank the following for their support

Print Partner

Paper Partner

Design Partner

mooli

Media Partner

Media Partner

Festival’s Official Hotel

Events created especially for under 5s

first spark

First Spark

free event

Free Event

A feast of free fun activities over half term

Higher Education Partner

spot light

Media Partner

ROCKEbT clu

Funders

Welcome

Things to look out for:

Proud to be part of

Two special shows that we also recommend for teenagers

Spotlight On

Support The Spark and join the Rocket Club (see page 25)

Rocket Club

Stay connected with The Spark Festival 2014

Like us on Facebook/SparkArtsFestival

Send us your tweets @thesparkarts #Spark14

The P&C Hickinbotham Charitable Trust Tesco Charity Trust Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation Festival Partner

2

Equity

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Join @thesparkarts on Instagram #Spark14 Download The Spark Festival iPhone App available from the Apple store.

Visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk for exclusive content and information

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

A warm welcome to The Spark Festival 2014, our twelfth year of bringing some of the world’s best artists to Leicester for children and their families. Prepare to be dazzled and entertained over 14 glorious festival days.

This year Spark has turned a slight shade of green, with Theatre-Rites bringing their inventive world of Rubbish to Curve, whilst the Science Museum Live presents The Energy Show at De Montfort Hall. We are thrilled to see award-winning international dance company Aracaladanza at Curve, Embrace Arts will host Too Many Penguins and Phoenix will be holding their first Social Cinema experience for children.

We are delighted to have two exceptionally high profile artists with us; Swiss artist Camille Sherrer will be at Phoenix, whilst Danish sculptor Maria Zahle will be at New Walk Museum.

Finally we must mention our very own co-production with Bamboozle theatre company, a re-telling of Julia Donaldson’s Jack and the Flumflum Tree specially commissioned for children with learning difficulties. This show will be touring to schools as part of the festival, before embarking on a UK tour.

We hope you enjoy all that The Spark Festival has to offer this year - we’ll see you there!

Adel Al-Salloum, Director

Welcome! I performed in Spark 2004 and it has been a joy to see how the festival has grown and developed over the last decade. This year’s Spark promises to be the best yet and will inspire, entertain and fascinate young audiences across the city.

I am also hugely excited to be bringing my own shows to this year’s festival. I will be performing I, Malvolio at Curve, whilst the brilliant Company of Angels will be touring my plays I, Peaseblossom and I, Caliban into schools and libraries. I hope you enjoy watching them as much as I enjoyed creating them. Have a great festival!

Tim Crouch, award-winning playwright, director, performer and Patron of The Spark

Twitter

@thesparkarts

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

3

free event

The Spark and Curve present

The Play-ground

Workshops

Tuesday 27 - Friday 30 May 10.30am - 4pm

Letterpress Studio- Leicester Print Workshop

At this year’s Play-ground we are going green, creating a new world from old. So empty out your cupboards, fill up your bags and bring your unwanted books, clothes and jumble to our upcycled Play-ground.

All Play-ground activity is absolutely FREE, so come down to discover and play!

A World of Paper: Help us to create a canopy of planes, birds and decorations, as we experiment with ten ways to turn your daily newspaper into a paper art installation.

Junk puppets: Get crafty with Spark’s workshop leaders, turning everyday items into charismatic puppets.

Dress Up: Rummage around in Curve’s dressing up box for an outfit that takes your fancy.

Swap shop: Bring your unwanted toys and books to swap for something else!

Colour in the main stage: Get your crayons at the ready… it’s a big stage and we want it completely coloured in with your doodles, drawings and writing.

Book Corner: Playing is very hard work, so when it’s time to have a rest you can tuck yourself away in our Book Corner and enjoy some magical story-telling.

4

free event

Leicester Print Workshop will bring its pop up letterpress studio to the Play-ground, giving you the opportunity to print ‘green’ words and slogans; so drop in and have a go!

(There’s no need to book).

Creative Workshops

Tuesday 27- Friday 30 May 11am - 12 noon Suitable for: 7+ years

Get involved with a series of exciting workshops, devised and led by Curve’s Young Arts Entrepreneurs. Whether you’re interested in digital media, drama or creative writing, there’s something for everyone, giving children the opportunity to learn in a fun and interactive way.

Creative Workshops are free but places are limited. Call Curve 0116 242 3595 to book.

For more details please visit our website.

Curve Stage Tour

Spark bites: Talented local artists take to the foyer stage twice a day with a short performance for children. If you or your group would like to take part please contact rosanna@thesparkarts.co.uk before 1 May.

with Light and Sound Demonstration

Suitable for: All the family Running Time: 10.30am - 4pm each day

Suitable for: ages 6+ years Running Time: 1 hour

Catch a glimpse of Curve behind the scenes, as we tread the boards and discover what is underneath them, leading to a light and sound demonstration on the main stage.

Tickets: £3* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

Tickets: Free events - just drop in Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Tuesday 27- Friday 30 May 11am, 12.15pm & 1.30pm

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Twitter

@thesparkarts

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

5

Leicester Arts & Museums present

free event

Diversions: Route II

Digital Sparks

Tuesday 20 May – Sunday 1 June

Tuesday 27 May - Sunday 1 June 11am - 5pm

We need your creativity!

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery and The Spark Festival are inviting you to take part in Diversions: Route II. Those who experienced Diversions last year will recall the fun and madness enjoyed by giving youngsters the chance to run, hide, crawl and play their way through the galleries.

This year we are offering children across Leicester a truly unique opportunity, to both meet and work with acclaimed Danish sculptor, Maria Zahle, who is in Leicester as part of her ARMA residency

These workshops will enable children to experiment with and explore a variety of materials and activities, which will then go on to shape Maria’s final artwork due to be unveiled in October 2014.

Come and experience something new; from large scale sculptures to curating spaces, this is your invitation to make your mark and take part!

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery is holding a number of special family days throughout May and in the first week of June - please visit www.leicester.gov.uk/arma for more information.

These activities are a part of Maria Zahle’s 2014 Alexandra Reinhardt Memorial Award residency at New Walk Museum and Art Gallery.

This is supported by the Max Reinhardt Charitable Trust and managed by Engage, the National Association for Gallery Education

Dates & Times:

Tuesday 20 May 10.30am - 12pm Suitable for: 0 - 2 years; 1pm - 3pm Suitable for: 3 - 5 years Wednesday 28 May - Sunday 1 June 11am - 2pm Suitable for: families School day:

Thursday 22 May 10am - 2pm To book contact lisa.jacques@leicester.gov.uk

6

Phoenix presents

Tickets: Free events - just drop in Venue: New Walk Museum & Art Gallery 0116 225 4900

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

free event

Our Spark Festival programme for 2014 is packed with amazing interactive digital experiences and activities for all ages, including handpicked films, unique free exhibitions and fascinating one-day workshops giving children the opportunity to play, learn and invent with the latest technologies.

Come to Phoenix and join in with these FREE digital delights...

Swiss artist and designer Camille Scherrer is combining art and technology to transform Phoenix into an enchanting world, with two inventive and interactive digital artworks inspired by the mountain landscape where she grew up.

Into the Woods In this innovative installation your shadow has a life of its own! Enter a magical woodland where creatures hide, just waiting to be discovered.

Le Monde des Montagnes Using the latest augmented-reality technology, this very special book is brought to life and incredible animated worlds emerge from its pages.

There will also be loads of fun activities, from robot play areas to drop-in 3D printing workshops to spark the imagination.

Further details about our other events are available in the Phoenix monthly brochure and website www.phoenix.org.uk Suitable for: 2+ years Running Time: 11am - 5pm each day Tickets: Free events - just drop in Venue: Phoenix 0116 242 2800

Twitter

@thesparkarts

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

7

Photo: Matthew Andrews

Birmingham Stage Company presents

La Baracca - Testoni Ragazzi (Italy) presents

Tim Crouch presents

The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

Horrible Histories Barmy Britain

The Boat & The Moon

I, Malvolio

Tall Stories’ magical musical stage adaptation of the award-winning picture book The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!

“There was a boat, sailing at sea, but on the moon it wanted to be...”

“I’ll be revenged on the whole pack of you.”

Tuesday 20 May 1.30pm & 4.30pm Wednesday 21 May 10.30am & 4.30pm Thursday 22 May 10.30am, 1.30pm & 4.30pm

Meet a wheeler-dealer Fox, an eccentric old Owl and a maracashaking, party mad Snake! Mouse can scare these hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined…?

The Gruffalo is an ideal introduction to theatre, with plenty of songs, laughs and scary fun for children and their grown-ups.

Suitable for: 3+ years Running Time: 55 mins

Tickets: £12* plus transaction fee Groups of 10+ £10* Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

8

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Tuesday 20 May 7pm Wednesday 21 May 10.30am & 1.30pm Thursday 22 May 10.30am & 7pm Friday 23 May 10.30am & 7pm Saturday 24 May 2.30pm & 7pm

So it’s time to prepare yourself for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new show Barmy Britain with all new amazing 3D effects! Can you beat battling Boudicca? Would you lose your heart or head to horrible Henry? Can evil Elizabeth entertain England? Will Parliament survive gunpowder Guy? Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare, move to the groove with party Queen Victoria and prepare to do battle in the frightful First World War! It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

Horrible Histories® is a registered trademark of Scholastic Inc. and used under authorization. All rights reserved.

Based on the books written by Terry Deary and illustrated by Martin Brown. Illustration copyright © Martin Brown.

Suitable for: 6+ years Running Time: 2 hours

Tickets: £13* Tue to Thur / £15* Fri & Sat plus transaction fee Groups of 10+ £10* Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Friday 23 May 10.45am & 1.15pm Saturday 24 May 11am & 1.30pm

Italian company La Baracca create a charming world, where even a paper boat can have a dream.

Journey through the ocean and talk to the stars as the boat tries and tries to reach the Moon. But how do you leave the sea and sail to the Moon?

This is a story about making dreams come true; mixing songs, puppetry and movement to create a captivating sensory world for little ones.

Suitable for: 1 - 4 years Running Time: 40 mins

Tickets: £6* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

Twitter

@thesparkarts

first spark

Adopt a School

Friday 23 May 7.30pm Saturday 24 May 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Twelfth Night is re-imagined in this brilliant one-man show unlocking Shakespeare’s play and telling a timeless story of bullying, prudery and practical jokes.

This is a show for anyone who has ever been told off, called a name or has fallen in love with the wrong person.

Written and performed by Spark patron Tim Crouch, a hugely experienced champion of Shakespeare for young people.

A Brighton Festival and Singapore Arts Festival Commission.

Suitable for: 11+ years Running Time: 60 mins

Tickets: £8* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

spot light

All of the performances on this page are part of our Adopt A School programme. This popular scheme encourages partnerships with Leicester schools and businesses.

If you are a local business you could fund a school class or year group to come and see one of these wonderful theatre shows. For many children this will be their first taste of live professional theatre and will be an unforgettable experience.

If you are a Leicester school or business interested in this scheme, call us on 0116 261 6893 or e-mail development@thesparkarts.co.uk for more information.

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

9

Movers Theatre Company presents

Arun Ghosh Quintet presents

Rene Baker & Norwich Puppet Theatre present

Company of Angels in association with The Theatre Orchard presents

Secret Stories

Indo-Jazz

The Frog & The Princess

I, Peaseblossom

Gemma’s book is magic - she lives inside its secret stories in a world of fantasy and colour. But when two characters escape from the book, one good and one evil, their magic is released into the real world. A breathless chase begins. Can Gemma return the characters to the book? Or will the world be changed forever?

British-Asian clarinettist, composer and music educator Arun Ghosh comes to The Spark with his wonderful Indo-Jazz sound. Arun has released two critically acclaimed albums and Leicester audiences may remember his music from last year’s production of Tree Child.

A poignant and fun puppetry re-telling of the traditional Brother’s Grimm Frog Prince tale.

Thursday 22 May 7pm

Secret Stories is a new performance by Movers, Leicester’s Learning Disabled Theatre Company. Movers make work which is accessible to everyone.

Suitable for: 10+ years.

Suitable for disabled and non-disabled.

Running Time: 60 mins Tickets: £7 / party of four £25 Venue: Embrace Arts 0116 252 2455

10

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Saturday 24 May 11.30am

Arun offers a unique opportunity for audiences to experience brilliant and passionate music making, through performance and lively discussions.

Come and experience Arun’s distinctive sound, influenced by South Asian and jazz language, infused with a 21st century stew of hip-hop, dance and rock culture. This is an unmissable performance, featuring young people from Leicester schools, who are working with Arun in the lead-up to festival.

Suitable for: 6+ years.

Running Time: 60 mins

Saturday 24 May 11am & 4pm

What happens when a Princess deems a Frog unworthy of being her friend, just because of what he is? As the Frog and the Princess undergo an emotional journey from rejection to friendship they discover that deep down they are not so very different after all.

The Frog & The Princess will be touring schools as part of the At Your School programme.

Suitable for: 4+ years Running Time: 50 mins

Saturday 24 May 11am

Venue: Beaumont Leys Library Tickets: £2 (Library members:

adults free, children £1) Call: 0116 299 5460

Tickets: £5 children, £7 adults Venue: The Y 0116 255 7066

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Twitter

@thesparkarts

Saturday 24 May 4pm Venue: Ashby Baptist Church as part of Ashby Arts Festival Tickets: £3 Call: Ashby TIC 01530 411767

Saturday 24 May 11am & 2.30pm

“Hilarious, sad, uplifting and revelatory. I’ll never look at Shakespeare in the same way” Audience Member I, Peaseblossom is the story of A Midsummer Night’s Dream as re-lived through the fevered nightmares of Shakespeare’s most neglected fairy.

Tim Crouch’s unique interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic text re-tells this famous story through the eyes of one of the characters destined to watch the main action from the side-lines.

I, Peaseblossom, and its sister production I, Caliban, will be touring schools as part of the At Your School programme.

Suitable for: 8+ years Running Time: 60 mins Tickets: £2 (Library members: adults free, children £1)

Saturday 24 May 11am Venue: Southfields Library Call: 0116 299 5480

Saturday 24 May 2.30pm Venue: The Brite Centre Call: 0116 299 5476

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

11

The Y presents

Krazy Kat Theatre Company presents

Monski Mouse presents

Circle of Two presents

Bedtime Stories Saturday 24 May 4.30pm

A (midsummer night's) DREAM

Monski Mouse Baby Disco Dance Hall

The Impossible Love Story of

"Creates a unique atmosphere and allows friends, parents, carers, grandparents (you name it) to join together by dancing, enjoying the music and relaxing." Three Weeks

When the clock strikes twelve, magic begins and a doll comes to life...

Don’t forget to bring along your favourite mug for your hot chocolate!

Embrace Arts welcomes Krazy Kat Theatre Company back, with this newly re-worked version of Shakespeare’s classic comedy. This adaptation features puppets, music, actors, sign language and a cast of both deaf and hearing performers and writers.

Everybody loves bedtime stories. For one evening only our theatre will be transformed into a comfy, cosy bedroom where a range of traditional and new tales full of magic, warmth and giggles can be enjoyed. With professional storytellers, warm drinks, cookies and lullabies, this is a magical opportunity to share a bedtime storyland with others.

In partnership with Leicester Libraries Children Young People Service.

Suitable for: under 8s and their families. Teddies are also welcome.

Running Time: 60 mins Tickets: £2 per child / adult - includes cookies and bedtime drink.

Venue: The Y 0116 255 7066

12

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Sunday 25 May 11am and 2.30pm

Krazy Kat theatre has been running for over thirty years, creating unique child-centred theatre.

Why toddle when you can dance, dance, dance! Parents and under 5s are let loose on the dance floor in this friendliest of discos. DJ Monski Mouse and her team bring high energy smiles to The Spark, spinning retro hits and funky nursery rhymes.

Get your disco-dancing booties on!

Tickets: £5 child / adult No transaction fee

Tickets: £7 / Party of four £25 Venue: Embrace Arts 0116 252 2455

Facebook

Monday 26 May 11am, 1pm & 3pm

Suitable for: 0 - 5 years Running Time: 45 mins

Suitable for: 4 - 11 years Running Time: 50 mins

(Babies under 6 months go free, maximum 2 children per adult) Venue: De Montfort Hall 0116 233 3111

SparkArtsFestival

Bambolina & Dodo

Twitter

@thesparkarts

first spark

Saturday 24 - Monday 26 May

The impossible love story of a mechanical doll called Bambolina and its maker Dodo. A poetic pantomime that blends circus, theatre and puppetry brought to you by this international mime duo.

Saturday 24 May - acrobatic performance (20 mins) Evington Park 11am & 12pm, Abbey Park 3pm & 4pm

Sunday 25 May - trapeze performance (45 mins) Knighton Park 12pm & 2pm Taster trapeze and circus skills workshop: 3.15pm, 3.45pm & 4.15pm

Monday 26 May - trapeze performance (45 mins) Spinney Hill Park 12pm & 2pm Taster trapeze and circus skills workshop: 3.15pm, 3.45pm & 4.15pm

Suitable for: 4+ years (Workshop 7+ years) Tickets: FREE (Workshop places limited, book on the day)

free event

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

13

Replay Theatre Company presents

tutti frutti and York Theatre Royal present

Theatre-Rites presents

macrobert and Frozen Charlotte present

A Boy and His Box

Monday’s Child

Rubbish

Too Many Penguins?

The story of a boy, a box and his vivid imagination!

Monday’s Child tells a simple poetic story of the unique bond between a grandmother and a child.

Tuesday 27 May & Wednesday 28 May 11am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm

With live drawing, projection, quirky tunes and some brilliantly ridiculous sound effects, this show celebrates the amazing world that is a child’s imagination and reminds grown ups that an adventure can begin with the stroke of a pen.

This show is for children everywhere who like playing in cardboard boxes!

“My son ran home and started drawing, and two days later he’s still drawing!”

Audience member

Suitable for: 3 - 8 years Running Time: 35 mins plus playtime Tickets: £6* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

14

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Tuesday 27 & Wednesday 28 May

Grandma can’t remember, but does remember to visit every week and play until bedtime. Together, they love to sing and dress up. At just five years old, the child revels in the days with her eccentric Grandma and loves learning new things – how to count, the different colours and the simplicities of abc and 123.

With live music and dance, this imaginative dream-like yet funny story explores how we learn, grow old and cope with new challenges.

Suitable for: 3 - 7 years Running Time: 55 mins

Tuesday 27 May 11.30am & 2.30pm

Venue: The Guildhall Tickets: £5 Call: 0116 253 2569

Wednesday 28 May 2pm

Venue: Loughborough Town Hall Tickets: £5 child / £7 adult Call: 01509 231914

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Tuesday 27 May & Wednesday 28 May 1pm & 4pm

“ A company of genuine originality and flair” The Guardian

Imagine a world that celebrates its rubbish. A world where, at the touch of a puppeteer’s hand, the contents of a bin bag can transform before your eyes...

Four inquisitive excavators explore the unexpected value of discarded objects.

What will emerge from a bag full of sludge and what could possibly happen when they find a lost glove? A visually stunning and playful production.

Come and enjoy the beautiful, silly and inventive world of Rubbish!

There will be a relaxed performance on Wednesday 28 May 1pm.

Suitable for: 5+ years Running Time: 75 mins

Tickets: £8* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

Twitter

@thesparkarts

Wednesday 28 May 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm

How many penguins are too many penguins? Mr Polaro thinks that one is more than enough, thank you very much. Penguina wants someone to play with. Just one friend... well, maybe two...or three.

How many penguins can we get in one space?

Squeeze into this fun theatrical experience; it might get crowded, but we promise the arrival of the penguins, however many, will entertain and delight.

An East Midlands Children’s Theatre and Dance Network touring production.

Suitable for: 1 - 4 years Running Time: 35 mins plus 10 mins playtime Tickets: £7 / party of four £25 Venue: Embrace Arts 0116 252 2455

first spark

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

15

Photo: Pedro Arnay

Half Moon presents

Get Involved Limited presents

Norwich Puppet Theatre and Polka Theatre present

Aracaladanza (Spain) in association with MOKO Dance present

When Spring Comes

Shlomo's Human Geekbox…

For Kids!

Three Colours

Constellations

"... sensational in every sense of the word... a creative and dynamic experience that is sure to inspire any young mind" - Curious Mum

Multi-award winning international company Aracaladanza brings this extraordinarily magical dance performance made especially for children and families to Curve.

Thursday 29 - Saturday 31 May 11am & 2pm

Follow Adeel through the seasons from summer into winter, anticipating the coming of spring. Meet a rabbit, a butterfly, and a wise old owl and play among the falling leaves and crisp snowflakes.

An enchanting show fusing Kathak and contemporary dance, presented within an illustrated animated environment, underscored by a live jazz inspired soundtrack.

Performances conclude with a ‘play’ session where the children are invited to join the performers to dance on stage to the gentle jazz rhythms of the play.

A Southbank Centre Alchemy Festival 2012 supported commission developed with Southbank artist in residence, Gauri Sharma-Tripathi.

Suitable for: 3 - 7 years Running Time: 35 mins plus 20 mins post-show play Tickets: £6* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

16

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Thursday 29 May 3pm

"He's like a one-man Hollywood action film soundtrack" The Times

Shlomo is back. The World Record Holding beatboxer returns to The Spark with his brand new interactive eargasmic experience. Come on a mad beatbox journey to Planet Geek and back as Shlomo explores the art and science of geekdom, gadgets, and the music of the human voice.

Join Shlomo as he recreates his metamorphosis from wannabe astrophysics geek to mouth music megastar.

There will be a pre-show beatbox workshop at 1pm (limited places).

Suitable for: 5+ years Running Time: 45 mins

Bask in a world of colour in this interactive performance which explores vibrant sensory worlds. Three Colours gently draws you into wonderful imaginary landscapes, where you can swim with fish, feel frogs nibble your toes, catch grasshoppers and listen to a gentle heartbeat… all magically created out of the colours of light.

With the use of projection, light, puppets, music and dance, this immersive performance promises to delight and tickle the imagination of our youngest Spark audiences.

There will be a relaxed performance on Friday 30th May at 1.30pm.

Suitable for: 2 - 4 years Running Time: 40 mins

Tickets: £6 (£12 performance and workshop - child) Venue: The Y 0116 255 7066

Facebook

Friday 30 & Saturday 31 May 10.30am & 1.30pm

Tickets: £7 / party of four £25 Venue: Embrace Arts 0116 252 2455

SparkArtsFestival

Twitter

@thesparkarts

first spark

Friday 30 May 1.30pm

In Constellations, renowned choreographer Enrique Cabrera has taken the brilliantly abstract work of artist Joan Miró as his starting point and repeatedly fills his imaginary blank canvas with vivid colours, shape and movement.

Wonderful dance, ingenious puppetry and terrific digital visuals are delivered with Aracaladanza’s trademark playfulness, creativity and style. This company is one of the most accessible dance companies for children and young people of all ages.

A fun filled programme of activities will be available pre and post show.

Suitable for: 4+ years Running Time: 55 mins

Tickets: £8* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

spot light

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

17

Social Cinema - Wizard of Oz Saturday 24 May 3pm

Phoenix and the Social Cinema invite you to follow the yellow brick road with us as we present a very special screening of The Wizard Of Oz, Victor Fleming’s enduring family musical of Dorothy and her dog Toto’s adventures in a magical land.

We’ll be transforming the Phoenix Courtyard Suites into our very own ‘merry old land of Oz’, where there’ll be craft, music, specially devised performances, and delicious Oz treats. As well as that, we’ll have prizes for the best Oz character fancy dress and, of course, one of the most enchanting Technicolor movie marvels ever made.

Suitable for: 5+ years Running Time: 3pm - 5.45pm (film starts at 4pm) Tickets: £6 Venue: Phoenix 0116 242 2800

18

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

POP! A Magical Comedy Show Saturday 31 May 12pm & 4pm

The most fun-filled show for children and families around!

With his faithful teddy bear, deckchair and fantastic basket of tricks, Christian Lee is all set for a lovely day at the seaside…until the day takes a turn and things don’t quite work out as planned.

Join our hapless hero and be astounded in this totally word-free clown and magic show that follows his exciting adventures at sea. Mr Bean meets Charlie Chaplin in this mind-blowing feast of illusion, comedy and a MASSIVE balloon!

Science Museum Live presents

Sinfonia Viva presents

The Energy Show

Where Corals Lie

Stand well back and cover your ears – theatre just got dangerously exciting! Methane bubbles are set alight to make fireballs, liquid nitrogen freezes flowers, hydrogen balloons explode and rockets are fired into the audience.

Join Sinfonia Viva, the national orchestra based in the East Midlands, on a musical voyage.

Saturday 31 May 7pm Sunday 1 June 11am & 3pm

Two futuristic science students race against time to prove their knowledge of energy. With help from the incredible virtual lab-assistant, i-nstein, and a steampunk workshop full of gadgets and chemicals, they explore, experiment and explode anything and everything they can find.

The show builds to a breath-taking climax as they demonstrate all forms of energy, live on stage.

Suitable for: 7+ years Running Time: 90 mins plus interval

Suitable for: 3 - 8 years Running Time: 50 mins

Tickets: £12 child, £15 adult, £48 family of four Groups £10 plus one free teacher per 10. No transaction fee Venue: De Montfort Hall 0116 233 3111

Tickets: £8* plus transaction fee Venue: Curve 0116 242 3595

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Twitter

@thesparkarts

Sunday 1 June 2pm

Joined by composer Jack Ross and storyteller Zoe Palmer, this chamber piece weaves a story about life on the ocean waves and includes a diverse musical programme inspired by the watery-world, from LennonMcCartney's Yellow Submarine to Elgar's beautiful Where Corals Lie.

This programme is perfect for children of all ages and their families so jump on board at Embrace Arts for this afternoon of watery fun for all of the family.

There will be a pre-show workshop at 1pm - price £3. Limited places.

Suitable for: 5+ years Running Time: 1 hour (Workshop 45 mins) Tickets: £7 / party of four £25 Venue: Embrace Arts 0116 252 2455

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

19

workshop

workshop

BBC Radio Leicester Open Day

Workshops @ Pedestrian

Have a go at being a BBC presenter, find out what it is like to present the news and discover what goes on behind the scenes! There are a host of opportunities for photos, so don't forget your camera!

DJ & Turntablism

Urban Art

Learn how to mix and scratch your favourite songs, with Pedestrian's expert music and DJing tutors.

Explore how to draw Graffiti Art lettering using professional paint pens and materials. Participants will design and create their own canvas to take away.

Monday 26 May 10am - 4pm

Come and try your hand at presenting the weather at the Weather Roadshow on Wednesday 28 May.

Suitable for: all the family (children must be accompanied by an adult) Tickets: FREE - call 0116 251 6688 to book on a tour

Follow our Young Reporters’ exclusive coverage as we introduce you to Fay, Charlie, Sean and Connor from Takeover Radio. They will be joining forces with BBC Radio Leicester to bring you the latest Spark news and reviews during the Festival.

The Spark Newsroom

Tune in to Ben Jackson on BBC Radio Leicester on 104.9FM (3pm-6pm) and Takeover Radio on 103.2FM Listen online at www.bbc.co.uk/radioleicester

20

www.takeoverradio.com

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Wednesday 28 May 11am

Thursday 29 May 11am

Perfect for young aspiring DJs or children who just want to have a go.

Tickets: £6

Please come in suitable clothing!

Tickets: £10 including materials

Suitable for: 8-13 years Running Time: 2 hours

Contact: To book contact The Spark office 0116 261 6893 Venue: Pedestrian

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Invent with Ototo Wednesday 28 May 10.30am - 3.30pm

In this workshop you’ll learn how to make your own crazy musical instruments with Ototo.

From electronic drum kits made out of saucepans to a coat stand that sings when you place something on its peg, the Ototo kit lets you make music with almost anything!

Ototo (which means ‘little brother’ in Japanese) was commissioned by Near Now and is made by design studio Dentaku.

Suitable for: 9 + Running Time: 5 hours including 1 hour lunch Tickets: £20 Venue: Phoenix 0116 242 2800

Twitter

@thesparkarts

workshop

workshop

Fireflies – Creative Technology

Animation Nation

Ages 6 - 9: 10.30am – 12.30pm Ages 10 - 13: 1.30pm – 3.30pm

You come up with the ideas and produce a storyboard for your film, make characters and props from modelling clay, then produce short animated films complete with titles, credits and music!

Thursday 29 May

Create wearable technology in this brilliant workshop from digital pioneers Codasign.

Learn how to build basic hardware to make firefly badges, necklaces and headbands that light up when it’s dark!

Combining craft with simple electronics, this workshop is a great introduction to using digital technologies to express your creativity.

Running Time: 2 hours

Tickets: £10 Venue: Phoenix 0116 242 2800

Friday 30 May 10am - 3pm

Learn how to make your own stop motion animation in this hands-on workshop from Animation Nation.

“Absolutely fantastic. Best workshop I’ve seen for children. Full of creative learning and new experiences” Lexi Bruce, Seaview Primary School

Suitable for: 8 + Running Time: 5 hours including 1 hour lunch Tickets: £25 Venue: Phoenix 0116 242 2800

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

21

Schools Programme Monday 19 - Friday 23 May

The Spark Festival’s At Your School programme remains at the heart of the festival. We bring performances and workshops into Leicester schools and offer special theatre shows for school audiences at Curve (see pages 8 & 9).

As well as being lots of fun, these performances are a powerful teaching tool, stimulating a wealth of classroom activity across Key Stages 1, 2 and 3. Productions are supported by resources for teachers and some offer practical workshops, led by the performers themselves.

Arts Award

Arts Award allows children and young people to gain art form knowledge and understanding, whilst also developing leadership, creativity and communication skills. The Spark Arts for Children has trained Arts Award Advisers, who can help Leicestershire schools develop fun and flexible programmes for youngsters.

The Spark Festival offers a fantastic opportunity for children and young people to explore the richness and diversity of art and culture, and an easy way for schools to kick start their engagement with two Arts Award qualifications – Discover and Explore.

Contact us at 0116 261 6893 for more information about Arts Award and how your school could benefit.

22

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

At Your School Some of the schools who will be visited by The Frog & The Princess; Arun Ghosh, Indo Jazz; I, Peaseblossom; I, Caliban and Yummm!

Alderman Richard Hallam Primary School, Barley Croft Primary School, Catmose College, Folville Junior School, Mellor Community Primary School, Mowmacre Hill Primary School, Northfield House Primary School, Ravenhurst Primary School, Sandfield Close Primary School, Woodland Grange Primary School

Spark Heroes

Thanks to Mellor Community Primary and Mowmacre Hill Primary Schools for raising money by taking part in our Spark Hero Day. Next year Spark School’s Day will take place on Friday 13 February 2015. Visit our website for more information.

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Bamboozle Theatre and The Spark Arts for Children present

Jack and the Flumflum Tree

Grandma has the moozles, so Jack sets off to find the cure. He builds a boat and crosses oceans, tricks monkeys and, with the help of grandma’s mysterious sack, overcomes all. With engaging puppetry, beautiful songs and Bamboozle’s trademark multisensory style this show will enchant.

Jack and the Flumflum Tree will be touring special schools in Leicestershire, before embarking on a regional tour of schools and venues.

From the book by Julia Donaldson; illustrated by David Roberts, published by Macmillan Children’s Books 2011.

Twitter

@thesparkarts

Tell Tale Hearts presents

Yummm!

A dance theatre show that celebrates all that is messy at meal times!

This piece explores different taste sensations through dance and physical theatre, the rhythms and musicality in onomatopoeia and the funny eating habits of young children.

Yummm! Is a celebration of food seen through children’s eyes using dance, live music, quirky design and some amusing eating utensils. A highly imaginative production where tables can dance, plates spin and the audience have a chance to join in with the dinner time rituals!

Yummm! will be performing in Leicester schools.

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

23

The Spark Festival needs you…

Over the last twelve years, The Spark Festival has worked with over 135,000 children and their families here in Leicester. We are now working all year round to develop arts projects for children and spread the Spark magic a little bit further… but to do this we need your help.

A monthly donation to The Spark will make a real difference to children in Leicester and your donations will be doubled, thanks to funding from Arts Council England.

Tall Tales Big Moves presents

Tessa Bide and Jessamy Lambert present

Lighting The Fire

Sea Story

Creative development opportunities are vital to supporting artists in creating new work for children and young people. This year we have teamed up with IdeasTap to mentor and support two emerging artists, who are creating something new and distinctive for children.

Sea Story weaves together stories which have been written especially for us by young people from across the UK. Let Sea Story take you on a magical journey over, under and through the sea.

Arnold’s Big Adventure

We warmly welcome Tessa Bide and Rachel Birch-Lawson to this year’s festival, as they present their watery-themed new shows to children in schools and children centres.

IdeasTap is a charity that supports creative people through opportunities, funding, arts jobs and career advice. www.ideastap.com

24

This show combines dance, storytelling and sound – expect storms, shipwrecks, pirates, mermaids, jellyfish and a very curious sea creature…and help us to save the sea!

"We are so proud to have this opportunity to be mentored by The Spark and perform at the festival" Rachel Birch-Lawson

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Take off your shoes and socks and step into the watery world of Arnold the Acorn, as he takes you on unimaginable adventures…

Join Arnold as he is gobbled up by something big and fishy, scooped up by something feathery and helped by friendly flotsam…all on his search for somewhere to put down roots and call home.

Set inside a special tent, this show features shadow puppetry, live music to sing-along to and real water!

‘I am very excited to be performing my new show, Arnold’s Big Adventure, at The Spark Festival 2014. Leicester is a beautiful city and we can’t wait to pitch our tent there!’ Tessa Bide

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Become a Spark Supporter from just £5 a month

This will pay for 12 children to see a performance in their school OR the materials and resources for one of our interactive workshops.

In return for your much-needed support, you and your child will: • Become members of our brand new ‘Rocket Club’.

Your child will receive a badge, certificate and a quarterly newsletter with things to see, do and make.

• Be kept-up-to-date with exclusive children’s arts and theatre opportunities here in the East Midlands and the rest of the UK

Please visit us online to find out more about this brand new scheme at www.sparkfestival.co.uk/supporters, scan the QR code or email supporters@thesparkarts.co.uk

ROCcKluEbT

If you sign up before 30 June 2014, we will include you in our Special Prize Draw to win £50 of vouchers from our friends at Boden.

There are plenty of other ways in which you can support us, including lots of opportunities for businesses to get involved.

Please contact development@thesparkarts.co.uk

Twitter

@thesparkarts

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

25

26

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Twitter

@thesparkarts

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

27

Venues Abbey Park

Abbey Park Road Leicester LE4 5AQ Ashby Baptist Church

Brook Street, Ashby de la Zouch Leicestershire LE65 1HA Tickets: Ashby TIC 01530 411767 BBC Radio Leicester

9 St Nicholas Place Leicester LE1 5LB Tel: 0116 251 6688

Beaumont Leys Library

Beaumont Way Leicester LE4 1DS To book call: 0116 299 5460 or visit the library Braunstone Library at The BRITE Centre

Braunstone Avenue Leicester LE3 1LE To book call: 0116 299 5476 or visit the library Curve

Rutland Street Leicester LE1 1SB Ticket office: 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

* £3 transaction fee for all card payments made online, by telephone and in person at ticket desks.

28

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Twitter

@thesparkarts

Granville Road Leicester LE1 7RU Ticket office: 0116 233 3111 www.demontforthall.co.uk

New Walk Museum and Art Gallery

Richard Attenborough centre Lancaster Road Leicester LE1 7HA Ticket office: 0116 252 2455 www.embracearts.co.uk

Pedestrian

Evington Park

Phoenix

De Montfort Hall

Embrace Arts

Cordery Road Leicester LE5 6DE The Guildhall

Guildhall Lane Leicester LE1 5FQ To book call: 0116 253 2569 Knighton Park

Palmerston Way Leicester LE2 3RR Loughborough Town Hall

Market Place, Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 3EB Ticket office: 01509 231914 www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk

53 New Walk Leicester LE1 7EA Tel: 0116 225 4900

1st & 2nd Floors, 7-9 Rutland Street Leicester LE1 1RB To book call: The Spark 0116 261 6893 4 Midland Street Leicester LE1 1TG Ticket office: 0116 242 2800 www.phoenix.org.uk Southfields Library

Saffron Lane (Pork Pie Island) Leicester LE2 6QS To book call 0116 299 5480 or visit the library Spinney Hill Park Mere Road Leicester LE5 5AY The Y

7 East Street Leicester LE1 6EY Ticket office: 0116 255 7066 www.ytheatre.co.uk

Tickets also available online at www.sparkfestival.co.uk

More Information Visit Leicester Information Centre 51 Gallowtree Gate, Leicester LE1 5AD Telephone: 0844 888 5181 or

0116 299 4444 www.visitleicester.info

Getting to the Venue:

Directions to each venue are available from the venue themselves. They are also able to advise about car parking and any special requirements you may have.

Or visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to see map links for each venue.

Travel Line: 0871 200 2233 National Rail Enquiries: 0845 748 4950

Park & Ride Meynell’s Gorse (Leicester Forest East), Enderby and Birstall.

Special family rate £3.50 for a Group Ticket (up to 5 people), under 5s travel for free. www.quicksilverbus.co.uk

Somewhere to stay

Contact the Festival’s Official Hotel for information about their family deal.

The Belmont Hotel De Montfort Street, Leicester LE1 7GR 0116 254 4773

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

29

For more information about all festival events please contact The Spark on 0116 261 6893, or go to www.sparkfestival.co.uk

Age Recommendations

To ensure everyone has the best possible experience please follow the suggested age suitability guidelines. Also it’s usual for everyone to need a ticket or have a place reserved but if you are unsure please check with the venues when booking.

Unaccompanied Children

All shows, events and workshops are designed for children under 13 to be accompanied by an adult, unless otherwise stated.

Booking Tickets

Phone: contact numbers for all venues are on page 29.

On the Web: visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk for links to venues that offer online bookings or to buy tickets via PayPal for selected performances.

In person: venue addresses on page 29.

FREE events: please check if you need to reserve a place with the venue.

Schools

Please contact individual venues (page 29) to book for school groups.

Most venues offer 1 FREE teacher ticket for every 10 purchased.

Access

We want everyone to enjoy their experience of the festival so if you, or anyone in your party, have any special requirements please let the venue know when booking or call The Spark on 0116 261 6893 for more information.

Photography

There will be a Spark photographer at most events. Please let a member of staff know if you or your family do not wish to be photographed.

30

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

Thanks to:

All at Curve, Embrace Arts, De Montfort Hall, The Y, Phoenix, Loughborough Town Hall, New Walk Museum and Art Gallery and The Guildhall. Sue Thorn, Sarah Levitt, Maggie Shutt, Sarah Harrison, Paul Gobey, Stewart Doughty, Samantha Whelan, Lucy Phillips, Lucy Hammond, Linda Harding, Chris Maughan & Richard Fletcher, Suba Das, Tim Ford and the Curve Young Arts Entrepreneurs, and all our local promoters, teachers and Head Teachers.

Volunteers:

We would like to thank all our volunteers for their support throughout the year and especially during the festival.

To become a Spark volunteer email volunteers@thesparkarts.co.uk or call 0116 261 6893.

Design by:

Keith Turner at Mooli.

Spark photography by Pamela Raith.

A special thank you to our donors:

Boden East Midlands Airport East Midlands Trains maber architects Next Plc Paul’s Fruit & Veg (Western International) Ltd Pro Active Resolutions Rolls-Royce Plc

The Spark Arts For Children: Director – Adel Al-Salloum

General Manager – Harriet Roy Press & Marketing Manager Rachael Mabe 07782 650239

Development Manager Carrie Carruthers 07716 372168

Marketing & Events Support – Maya Biswas

Arts Administration Intern – Rosanna Sloan Student Placements – Lucy Tester, Allethia Belle-Ricketts

Board of Trustees: Stephan Aal David Bell (Chair) Mitch de Faria Vijay Mistry John Townsend

Lucy Bani Mike Candler Ravinder Kaur Mahmood Reza

Patron: Tim Crouch Festival Office:

LCB Depot, 31 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1RE Email: admin@sparkfestival.co.uk Call us on 0116 261 6893 www.sparkfestival.co.uk www.thesparkarts.co.uk The Spark Arts for Children is a registered charity number: 1106952. Company Limited by guarantee 5254229

We reserve the right to make any changes that may be necessary where unavoidable.

This brochure is printed on Regency Gloss with 10% recycled pre-consumer content. Regency is now Carbon Balanced, making it a leading sustainable woodfree coated sheet.

Facebook

SparkArtsFestival

Tue 20 May 10.30am 1pm 1.30pm 4.30pm 7pm Wed 21 May 10.30am 10.30am 1.30pm 4.30pm Thu 22 May 10.30am 10.30am 1.30pm 4.30pm 7pm 7pm Fri 23 May 10.30am 10.45am 1.15pm 7pm 7.30pm Sat 24 May 11am 11am 11am 11am 11.30am 12pm 1.30pm 2.30pm 2.30pm 2.30pm 3pm 3pm 4pm 4pm 4.30pm 7pm 7.30pm

Twitter

Diversions: Route II Diversions: Route II The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

Horrible Histories Barmy Britain The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

Horrible Histories Barmy Britain Horrible Histories Barmy Britain The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

Horrible Histories Barmy Britain The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

The Gruffalo Live on Stage!

Horrible Histories Barmy Britain Secret Stories Horrible Histories Barmy Britain The Boat and The Moon The Boat and The Moon Horrible Histories Barmy Britain I, Malvolio The Boat and The Moon The Frog & The Princess I, Peaseblossom Bambolina & Dodo Indo-Jazz Bambolina & Dodo The Boat and the Moon Horrible Histories Barmy Britain I, Malvolio I, Peaseblossom Bambolina & Dodo The Social Cinema Bambolina & Dodo The Frog & The Princess Bedtime Stories Horrible Histories Barmy Britain I, Malvolio

@thesparkarts

6 6 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 10 8 9 9 8 9 9 11 11 13 10 13 9 8 9 11 13 18 13 11 12 8 9

Sun 25 May

11am 12pm 2pm 2.30pm 3.15pm Mon 26 May 10am 11am 12pm 1pm 2pm 3pm 3.15pm Tue 27 May 10.30am* 11am* 11am 11.30am 1pm 1.30pm 2.30pm 3.30pm 4pm Wed 28 May 10am 10.30am* 10.30am 11am 11am* 11am 11am 11.30am 1pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 2pm 3.30pm 4pm

A (midsummer night's) DREAM Bambolina & Dodo Bambolina & Dodo A (midsummer night's) DREAM Bambolina & Dodo Workshops Radio Leicester Open Day Monski Mouse Baby Disco Bambolina & Dodo Monski Mouse Baby Disco Bambolina & Dodo Monski Mouse Baby Disco Bambolina & Dodo Workshops The Play-ground Digital Sparks A Boy and His Box Monday's Child Rubbish A Boy and His Box Monday's Child A Boy and His Box Rubbish Too Many Penguins?

The Play-ground Invent with Ototo Diversions: Route II Digital Sparks A Boy and His Box DJ and Turntablism Workshop Too Many Penguins?

Rubbish Too Many Penguins A Boy and His Box Monday's Child A Boy and His Box Rubbish

12 13 13 12 13 20 13 13 13 13 13 13 4 7 14 14 15 14 14 14 15 15 4 21 6 7 14 20 15 15 15 14 14 14 15

Thu 29 May 10.30am* 10.30am 11am 11am* 11am 11am 1pm 1.30pm 2pm 3pm Fri 30 May 10am 10.30am* 10.30am 11am 11am* 11am 1.30pm 1.30pm 2pm Sat 31 May 10.30am 11am 11am* 11am 12pm 1.30pm 2pm 4pm 7pm Sun 1 June 11am 11am* 11am 1pm 2pm 3pm

Diary

The Play-ground Fireflies Workshop Diversions: Route II Digital Sparks Urban Art Workshop When Spring Comes Shlomo's Workshop Fireflies Workshop When Spring Comes Shlomo's Human Geekbox Animation Nation The Play-ground Three Colours Diversions: Route II Digital Sparks When Spring Comes Constellations Three Colours When Spring Comes Three Colours Diversions: Route II Digital Sparks When Spring Comes Pop! Three Colours When Spring Comes Pop! The Energy Show Diversions: Route II Digital Sparks The Energy Show Sinfonia Viva Workshop Where Corals Lie The Energy Show

4 21 6 7 20 16 16 21 16 16 21 4 17 6 7 16 17 17 16 17 6 7 16 18 17 16 18 19 6 7 19 19 19 19

* All day events

visit www.sparkfestival.co.uk to book online

31