Picture This at The Lowry
Maja Lorkowska, Exhibitions Editor
Our love of books often starts young with childhood favourites re-read over and over again. This summer, The Lowry is giving families a chance to celebrate children’s books with a wonderful exhibition of illustrations and an exciting accompanying events programme.
Picture This features six popular children’s books which have been brought to life on stage, from the timeless classics to some newer titles, all with colourful, charming illustrations. The featured books are: Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, Coming to England by Floella Benjamin; Wild by Emily Hughes, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll; You Choose by Nick Sharratt and Pippa Goodhart.
While you may already know what happened when Alice fell down the rabbit hole, you might also find some new favourites. Coming to England is an inspiring story that celebrates the Windrush Generation, following ten-year-old Floella as she and her family move from the Caribbean to London. You Choose allows the readers to create a brand new story every time they open the book – from pets, to jobs and holidays, you get to choose!
Bringing the books to life are enchanting illustrations in a variety of styles and being able to see them presented on the walls of a gallery is undoubtedly a treat. Exhibited alongside these are filmed extracts from stage bringing the stories to life, as well as props, costumes and posters, enhancing the experience.
The exhibition emphasises the importance of these works adapted for the stage as well as read in the comfort of your home. A stage is at the centre of the show, which features performances, music, artist-led workshops and daily readings of the books on display as well as other titles.
Perhaps most importantly of all though, Picture This provides lots of opportunities for interactive activities like drawing, writing and performing in response to the display. Visitors, older and younger, can even come up with and share their own production ideas – perfect for aspiring dramaturgs of all ages! Indeed, the exhibition is suitable for children of all ages so bring your whole family and enjoy the magic of stories all over again.
