Youngsters had fun hearing about Peter Pan and Wendy's adventures in Neverland as the stars of Norwich Theatre Royal's pantomime took part in a special storytelling session.
Joined by the pirate Starkey, the trio visited the Children's Library at Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library yesterday where they enthralled an audience of enthusiastic young readers with highlights from the classic JM Barrie tale about the boy who never grew up.
Their visit was part of the library's series of regular storytelling sessions to encourage children to read and enjoy books.
Charlotte Baptie, who plays Peter Pan, said: 'It was great to share the story of Peter Pan with so many young people. They were absolutely enthralled by the twists and turns of Peter's adventures, and had the chance to help us tell the story too. It was lovely to meet so many young people, some of who had seen the pantomime, and also have the chance to show them how much fun reading can be.'
Lots of families packed into the library for the event which had an audience of about 70 people.
Ben Langley, who plays Starkey, said: 'It was absolutely marvellous. I was so impressed - at all of the panto events we have done the turnout of people has been amazing. The support the theatre has is unlike anything I have ever seen.'
Jo Parker, 33, from Spixworth, brought her daughters Jasmime, six, and Summer, three.
She said: 'It was great and the children seemed to have a really wonderful time. The characters really brought it to life for them which was really lovely. There was a really nice atmosphere and it rounded off Christmas quite nicely.'
Georgia Watson, 36, from north Norwich, brought her children Harry, seven, Arthur, four, and Barnaby, two, to the storytelling session, and she said they had a brilliant time.
Community librarian Gwen Parker said: 'We always like working with the Theatre Royal, and the children were absolutely captivated by the storytelling. It is a great way to inspire children to read more.'
Peter Pan is at Norwich Theatre Royal until January 18. The pantomime is based on the classic JM Barrie story and has been written and directed by Richard Gauntlett who is also plays the pirate Smee. Kevin Kennedy, who played Curly Watts in the ITV soap Coronation Street, plays Captain Hook.
Tickets £5.50-£21. For more and to book tickets visit www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000.
• Do you have a Norwich arts story? Email arts correspondent Emma Knights at emma.knights@archant.co.uk
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