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MONSTERS AND MAD HATTERS

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MONSTERS, the Mad Hatter and a behind the scenes look at murder mysteries are just a few of the treats in store for families at The Word this Easter.

The South Shields venue has created a schedule packed with storytelling, arts, and crafts – and the chance to be among the first to see its new free, must-see exhibition for monster fans of all ages.

Opening on 17 March and running until January 2019, Monsters! The Good, The Bad and The Cuddly features creatures from myth and the movies; from Pixar and Disney’s digital creations, to King Kong and Dr Frankenstein’s monster.

Visitors can take a selfie with Sulley from Monsters Inc, read about children’s favourites such as the Gruffalo and Shrek and be reminded of the monsters from Hollywood’s golden age: Dracula, Wolf Man and the Mummy.

Continuing the monster theme, on Friday 6 and 13 April, from 10.30am, 12.45pm and 2.15pm, under sevens and their families will be able to enjoy Monster Mash stories.

The sessions will feature tales of monster adventures, songs and monster crafts and activities in the interactive and immersive setting of StoryWorld.

Other arts and crafts sessions for children aged up to 11 are scheduled for Monday 2 and 9 and Thursday 5 and 12 April, from 10am – 11am and 2.30pm -3.30pm, with tickets costing £1 per child, payable at the door.

And on Wednesday 11 April, from 11am -12noon and 2pm -3pm Alice in Wonderland will meet the Three Billy Goats Gruff in a new show, called Alan in Wonderland and the 3 goats plus.

Suitable for under sevens and their families, this magical and immersive show comes complete with larger than life props and the chance to take part in the Mad Hatter’s tea party, become trolls under a bridge and help Alan save Alice.

Meanwhile adults can undertake an adventure of their own on Wednesday 4 April, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, when they can Meet Ashley Dyer, a new pseudonym for murder mystery writer Margaret Murphy and her advisor; forensic and policing expert, Helen Pepper.

They will explain, using pictures and practical demonstrations where they get their ideas and how forensic science, research and location inspire plots and stories, such as their new book, Splinter in the Blood.

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