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World Book Day 2025: Musical Storyland at Z-arts

Shekina Rose, Families Editor

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World Book Day 2025: Musical Storyland

Z-arts, Manchester
3 March 2025
Date
Time
Session Features
03 Mar 2025
11:00 am-11:30 am
03 Mar 2025
12:45 pm-1:15 pm
03 Mar 2025
1:45 pm-2:15 pm

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Free
Musical Storyland - Storyteller Jan Blake with animated backdrop Musical Storyland at Z-arts
BBC Philharmonic
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Celebrate World Book Day 2025 with a musical storytelling experience in Manchester on 3 March. Exclusively for school groups, Musical Storyland at Z-arts invites children who love books and stories, or those who could use a little reading inspiration, to discover the magic of storytelling through music and performance. 

Produced in partnership with Manchester Literature Festival, BBC Musical Storyland LIVE!, and Z-arts, this free, interactive event features renowned storyteller Jan Blake, djembe player Yahael Onono, and musicians from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra.

The event will be based on the story of the traditional folktale, Ananse and the Monkeys. Follow the talented Ananse, who makes beautiful hats to sell at the market – only to have a group of cheeky monkeys steal them while he snoozes under a tree – uh-oh! Can he outsmart the monkeys and get his hats back?

With Jan Blake’s brilliant, energetic storytelling, lots of funny moments and amazing live music from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, this 30-minute performance will take young audiences and their teachers on an unforgettable journey through African folklore. 

Musical Storyland at Z-arts is aimed at children aged 5-7 years old and is open to school groups only. There are three performances to choose from: 11:00 am, 12:45 pm and 1:45 pm.

If you’re a parent or carer, do encourage your child’s school to take part in this free event, where a fun and enriching experience awaits!

Accessibility

  • Audio Described
  • British Sign Language
  • Parent and Baby
  • Relaxed

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