Storytelling festival launches in Leeds

A three-week festival exploring the world of storytelling has launched in Leeds.

The Leeds Storytelling Festival is described by the council as "a city-wide celebration of storytelling designed especially for families and children".

The event is a partnership between Leeds Libraries, theatre company Wrongsemble and the LIVEwire Poetry group and runs from Friday until 8 March.

Wrongsemble said the festival "will not only showcase the diversity of storytelling but will also create unforgettable memories".

The festival launches at Leeds Central Library with Leeds-based children's book author and illustrator Kate Pankhurst, author of the Fantastically Great Women series.

The event will focus on women who fought for the right to take part in sports across the globe.

Other elements of the festival include interactive storytelling sessions, a city trail, creative workshops, author talks and live theatre performances.

There will also be costume-making workshops with the British Library and film screenings by Leeds Young Film.

LIVEwire Poetry founder Matt Abbott said: "Through poetry and performance, we hope to inspire children and families to discover their own creative voices."

Councillor Mary Harland, from Leeds City Council, said the festival would ensure every child and family "can experience the magic of storytelling".

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