Story Explorers

Story Explorers, in association with Nottingham Playhouse, were playful and interactive storytelling adventures for children aged 2-5. Held in Inspire libraries between 2018 - 2023.

Through puppetry, music and sensory play Story Explorers unleashed children's imaginations and took them on a magical and exciting storytelling adventure.

Year 1

In year one (2018/19) Story Explorers went on three different themed adventures - Under the Sea, Polar Adventures and Fantastical Forests - each one playing at all 12 of our level one libraries. A total of 36 performances throughout the year. 465 children (and 431 adults) attended all the Story Explorers sessions throughout year one.

Here's what some of our participants had to say;

"A magical, clever and entertaining performance. the actresses had great skill. Loved it, so did my daughter."

"Fabulous performance. My children were transfixed and I loved it too - thank you!"

"I absolutely love these performances - they capture my little girl so much (and me!)"

Illustrated under the sea scene featuring treasure chest, jellyfish, shark crab and starfish

Illustrated polar scene of two penguins, seal, polar bear above opened book.

Illustrated woodland creatures including fox, badger, rabbit and owl above opened book.

Year 2

In year two (2019/20) Story Explorers went on three new themed adventures -Dramatic Deserts, Up, Up and Away and Into the Jungle. 28 performances in total were held attended by 375 children (and 373 adults). The Into the Jungle tour was interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Here's what some of our participants had to say;

"I love how much my girls were captured, they sat still and watched the whole thing, they love these performances!"

"Love, love, love! Exceptional."

"Brilliantly engaging for the children. Love the library holds these events! More please"

Year 3

In year three, the Covid 19 pandemic prevented in-library events. The team at Nottingham Playhouse created two online stories; Rainforest Rescue and Under the Sea so families could still enjoy the adventures of Little Owl.

View both online adventures here

Illustrated rainforest with sun rising in background

Female actor with large glasses with feathers, shawl and woollen hat holds Little Owl puppet

Illustrated sea scape with Seagull and Little Owl flying above waves

Year 4

Year 4 (21/22) saw Story Explorers return into libraries. 36 performances took place across the year. Two new shows were developed; Little Owl Goes to Town and Down, Down Underground with the popular Up, Up and Away being retoured this year too. In total 375 children (and 353 adults) attended a session.

Here's what some of our participants had to say;

Brilliant - lovely setting. First visit for 1 year old. Excellent show, loved music and costumes and sensory.

Absolutely love Story Explorers, it plays a big part in my children's memories. They love it and so do I! Thank you.

It was brilliant, what a fabulous experience for families especially because of covid and missing lots. Need lots more of these types of experiences please.

Illustrated town scene above an opened book.

Illustrated rocket against large moon and planets above an opened book.

Illustrated countryside with fox and rabbit above ground and showing tunnels undergound.

Year 5

Year 5 (22/23) saw our final Story Explorers performances as Fantastical Forests was retoured. 21 performances took place in June 2022. 9 of these performances made possible by additional funding from the Miner2Major Landscape Partnership Scheme. In total 234 children (and 202 adults) attended a session.

Here's what some of our participants had to say;

Thanks so much again for a fab show! ... This is our 3rd Granny Owl show from the last 2 years- my now 4 yr old has loved them all!

One of the best performances we have been to and value for money.

This was a fantastically beautiful, creative and inventive production.