The Imagine Festival at the South Bank Centre

Once again this February, London’s iconic Southbank Centre is throwing open its doors to the incredible Imagine Children’s Festival. Children and adults alike are invited to enjoy comedy, poetry, music and literature and so much more over the course of the event. This is an event aimed at allowing our imaginations to fly, to be set free by a number of different events and activities held under the umbrella of the Imagine Festival. Children will be able to meet some of their favourite authors and artists in what has become one of the most enjoyable children’s events to take place in the city. They will be able to watch unique performances, take part in drawing classes and gain inspiration from their favourite writes such as Jacqueline Wilson. 2014 looks set to be the biggest and best event yet, many of the activities and events during the festival are free, however there are some events which are ticket only due to the limited number of places available. It is an event which really can claim to offer something for everyone, regardless of age.

Festival Special Guests

There are a number of special guest appearances planned across the length of the event which could be anything from listening to your favourite book being read by the author him or herself to a master class in composing your own story. Some of the special guests booked to attend the event are Patrick Ness, Francesca Simon, Malorie Blackman the Children’s Laureate and the author of the Tracy Beaker books Jacqueline Wilson. This is a festival appropriate for children of all ages and for one hundred of the children that attend it could be a very special event indeed as they could win the chance to spend the night in a sleep over taking place on the Royal Festival Hall stage. With musical workshops where children can try their hand at a number of different instruments, to sensory experiences for the babies and toddlers there really is something for everyone. Older children can get involved with the interactive theatre, or perhaps even try their hand in the political field by challenging politicians about the rights of children.

Exclusive Festival Events

In celebration of some of the best loved classics of children’s literature parents can win the chance to share stories written by their own children within the Vintage Reading Library. The eternally popular music and comedy shows presented by James Campbell will also be sure to go down a storm. The Starting Line Show is bursting with interactive activities for all the family to get involved in. Kids will love taking part in topsy turvy day on the 15^th or dressing as a cowboy for the day on the 22^nd.  Prove that the Borrowers exist or unleash your inner rock start in the battle of the bands. The Imagine Children’s festival is taken place at the Southbank Centre from February 10^th until Sunday February 23^rd, encompassing UK schools half term holidays. While many of the events taking place are free there is a charge for some of the smaller, exclusive events.