Michael Morpurgo meets David Almond in Newcastle

Two great British writers for young people meet as two cultural events celebrating their work take place in Newcastle upon Tyne

Two great British writers Michael Morpurgo and David Almond, both known for their books which appeal to both young readers and adults, met in Newcastle last week, as events celebrating their respective work were launched.

The two esteemed authors met at the launch of Michael Morpurgo, A Lifetime in Stories, at Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books, Newcastle. The exhibition, exclusive to Seven Stories, celebrates Michael’s work showcasing for the first time his notebooks and manuscripts that became the classics know today including War Horse, Kensuke’s Kingdom and Private Peaceful and is on display until June 2017.

David Almond, the author of SkelligMy Name is MinaCounting StarsThe SavageA Song For Ella Grey, is one of the North East’s most famous writers, also had a World Premiere of a new adaptation of his much loved illustrated novel, The Savage which opened at Live Theatre, Newcastle and runs until Saturday 23 July. The Savage, David’s first full length commission for Live Theatre is a magical contemporary fable combining music, movement and visual which has been gaining praise from both critics and audiences.

Kate Edwards, Chief Executive at Seven Stories adds:

 

“It was a delight and honour to have both Michael Morpurgo and David Almond attend the launch of Michael’s exhibition at Seven Stories. Both authors have done so much to harness the power of storytelling to touch the hearts and minds of young readers. This was the first time these two great authors have met and they were both incredibly complimentary of each another.”

Jim Beirne, Chief Executive, Live Theatre said:

 

“Seven Stories and Live Theatre are part of a vibrant cultural scene on Tyneside that excel in arts and cultural engagement for children and young people. These two landmark productions present the exceptional storytelling of leading children’s authors alongside the work made by children and young people from local communities. Together they showcase the strength of cultural programming for and with young people in the North East.”

 

Michael Morpurgo, A Lifetime in Stories, is on display until June 2017 at Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books, Newcastle. For more information visit www.sevenstories.org.uk

The Savage is a family friendly play suitable for ages 9+ and is at Live Theatre, Newcastle until Saturday 23 July. For more information or to book tickets visitwww.live.org.uk or contact Live Theatre’s box office on (0191) 232 1232.