Gripping audio drama bringing the magic of stories to children and families this half term

The Girl of Ink and Stars, written by  Satinder Chohan, based on the award-winning novel by Kiran Millwood Hargrave has been created by The Spark Arts for Children in association with Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries with funding from Arts Council England.

The Girl of Ink and Stars might be familiar to our family theatre goers.  The play toured Inspire’s libraries and other libraries across the East Midlands in summer 2019.

This year, the disruption caused by the Covid 19 pandemic has prevented live theatre tours from taking place in library venues for the moment. In order to continue to bring exciting and imaginative theatrical stories to families, Inspire commissioned The Spark Arts for Children to work with the original creative team to transform the play into an audio drama accessible by children at home or in school. 

Aimed at children aged 7+ and their families, the story follows the adventures of a young girl called Isabella and her lifelong friend Pablo. Forbidden to leave her island, Isabella dreams of the faraway lands her father once mapped. When a girl from the village disappears into the island's Forgotten Territories, Isabella and Pablo go in search of her.  Following Isabella's map and an ancient myth they discover that deep beneath the dry rivers and smoky mountains, a fiery legend is stirring from its sleep...  

The rich dialogue and captivating soundscape (created by composer Craig Vear) of the theatrical production has been reimagined to produce this gripping audio drama.  With crashing waves, cascading waterfalls, twinkling crystal caves and the snarling of fire demons, children (and adults) will be immersed in the story of Isabella and Pablo’s quest. Click here to listen to a sample of the soundscape.

The Girl of Ink and Stars  is a story of myth, magic and the power of friendship & is presented over three podcasts

Launching Monday 19 October 2020

inspireculture.org.uk/inkandstars

As a National Portfolio Organisation, Inspire is working hard to create an exciting programme of arts and cultural events for children and families and keen to commission and champion new work that allows children to hear stories brought to life. Together with The Spark Arts for Children we provide access to fun and imaginative theatrical experiences  for children and families.