Cast members bring under-the-sea magic to library

Cast members from Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ brought some mermaid magic to children in Redditch this February half term, in partnership with Starting Well family hubs.

The show’s enchanting undersea world came to life at Redditch Library as cast members from Studley Operatic Society and Starting Well staff delighted local children with a free story time event, colouring and craft activities, and a showing of the original Disney film.

Sophie Hill, set to play Ariel this coming April, and her mer-sister Kelly Mitchell (Atina), dressed up in their show costumes to read to the children – many of whom showed off their own mermaid costumes too.

Lorraine Hill, Chairperson for Studley Operatic Society, said: "We were thrilled to join forces with Starting Well and Redditch Library to bring a touch of Disney magic to the children. The library was filled with excitement as they listened intently to tales of Ariel and her underwater adventures, and everyone had a great time. We look forward to seeing everyone at our show in April and of course this classic tale isn’t just for youngsters, it’s light-hearted fun for everyone, so get your tickets today for an evening of magic, mermaids and a few tap-dancing seagulls! And if you missed this event, there will be another chance to ‘meet a mermaid’ on Saturday March 29, when we will be in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre outside Clarks/TUI.”

The event was delivered with the Starting Well family hub service and Redditch Library to offer fun activities and encourage a love for reading and the arts, and also to invite families to the society’s production of Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ which is running at the Palace Theatre 8-12 April, just before Easter.

Redditch Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Services, Cllr Monica Stringfellow, said: "By bringing local community organisations together like this we can help connect our children and families to meaningful experiences like this one. Thank you to everyone who worked together to put on this free event, and we wish Studley Operatic Society all the best with their show next month."

The Leader of the Council, Cllr Joe Baker, added: “This council continues to support the work of local community groups whose work brings so many opportunities to families across Redditch.”

For Palace Theatre tickets visit www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01527 65203.