Hello! Seven Stories will be closing for refurbishment work from Monday 20 April – July 2015 to coincide with our 10th birthday celebrations. Seven Stories visitor centre is open every day and after 10 years is in need of investment. The refurbishment will make your visitor experience even more magical for children of all ages, improve functionality and make the building more energy efficient. An Exclusive Invitation As a loyal supporter of Seven Stories we would like to offer you the chance to attend an exclusive launch day when our visitor centre re-opens in July 2015. You will be treated to a sneak peek of our brand new exhibitions; Under the Rainbow – A Michael Foreman Exhibition, Rhyme Around the World and A Bear Called Paddington and be the first to enjoy the brand-new Seven Stories experience. Simply register your interest by emailing reception@sevenstories.org.uk telling us why you love Seven Stories! Include a main contact name, email address and phone number along with how many adults and children in your party (maximum of 5 tickets per winner) and 100 lucky families will be chosen to celebrate our re-launch with us.
A Message for Annual Pass Holders In recognition of your support as an Annual Pass holder, we have extended the life of your pass for three months so you can still enjoy a full year of visits to Seven Stories. In July 2015 there will also be some changes to our pricing structure. This includes introducing a small charge for 1-3 year olds. If you have an adult-only Annual Pass and your child enjoys our ‘Under 4s Go Free’ policy, don’t worry, we will offer a grace period until the expiry of your current pass where your child will still go free.
Seven Stories on the Road While our visitor centre is closed we will be bringing the magic of children’s books to life at venues across the North East with stories, crafts, games and more. See the enclosed leaflet and join in the fun this Spring or head over to www.sevenstories.org.uk/whats-on to find out more. PLEASE NOTE: Seven Stories will be at Sunderland Winter Gardens on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May NOT Thursday 28 May.
Be Part of Our Story Did you know that Seven Stories is a charity? All the money we raise goes towards sharing the wonderful world of children’s books with as many children as possible. Be part of our story by making a donation to our 10th Birthday Appeal online, by texting READ07 followed by a space and your donation amount (e.g. READ07 £10) to 70070 or pledge your regular support by joining our friends scheme. *Coming Soon* Exhibitions Opening July 2015 Under the Rainbow– A Michael Foreman Exhibition
Michael Foreman is one of Britain’s best-loved writer-illustrators of children’s books. Through the exhibition we will use Michael books to ask readers to consider the consequences of conflict, the fragility of our environment and the importance of friendship, empathy and tolerance through his insightful storytelling and beautiful illustrations. Families are invited to add to the ‘Tree of Hope’ with messages for the future; explore stories of war and peace through War Boy, War Game, The General and Ali Pasha, build and play in a multi-sensory environment inspired by Dinosaurs and All That Rubbish and One World, and be inspired by Michael’s creative process in his artist’s studio with his own personal artefacts. Supported by Andersen Press, Templar Publishing and Pavilion Books.
Rhyme Around the World This lively & colourful exhibition invites families to step straight into their favourite nursery rhymes and discover new ones from around the world, exploring how stories, song and rhyme are shared across generations and continents. With sensory opportunities and beautiful and varied work by international illustrators, there’s something here for all the family. Supported by Frances Lincoln Publishing and Siobhan Dowd Trust A Bear Called Paddington (StoryLab Exhibition)
Grab your duffle coat and your marmalade sandwiches and discover how Michael Bond brought Paddington Bear to life. Packed with original illustrations and manuscripts from the series, this StoryLab exhibition explores the adventures of everyone’s favourite friendly bear from deepest, darkest Peru. Stay in Touch Keep in touch and share your memories of the last ten years via our Facebook page (/7stories), Twitter and Instagram (@7stories) or via or brand new blog! We look forward to updating you about our progress soon. Best Wishes Kate Edwards, Chief Executive. Illustrations © Michael Foreman, Jane Ray & R.W. Alley