Loogabarooga festival brings books to life...
BOOKS, illustrations and the occasional worm! Loogabarooga Festival returned to town last week - and already plans are underway for next year’s event.
The popular children’s illustrated literature festival returned for its third year and was officially opened with Waterstones Children’s Laureate Lauren Child - the creator of popular children’s characters Charlie and Lola and Clarice Bean.
Lauren headlined the festival and appeared in her own show at Charnwood Museum to talk about the ‘stories behind the stories’.
Adults and youngsters alike were also given a rare chance to see a selection of original work, specially picked by Lauren from her private collection, in ‘The Art of Lauren Child – Adventures with Charlie and Lola and friends’ exhibition that will be at Charnwood Museum until Saturday, December 23.
The festival also saw Loughborough Library, Loughborough Town Hall and reel of other venues host shows and activities.
Events that took place in town as part of the festival include: The Hairy Maclary and Friends Show, Little Howard’s Big Show for Kids, Loogabarooga Comic Fair, Meet the Little Adventurers and a Loogabarooga Dog Show.
This year also saw new book trails, storytelling sessions, and advice on how to write and illustrate.
There were also appearances from authors and illustrators such as Dave Shelton, Andrew Everett-Stewart, Gemma Denham and Will Mabbitt - the brains behind ‘I Can Only Draw Worms’.
Loughborough Comic-Con also took over the Leisure Centre on Sunday (October 22).
Sylvia Wright, head of leisure and culture at Charnwood Borough Council, said: “Once again lots of people have enjoyed celebrating children’s illustrated literature at the Loogabarooga Festival.
“We were honoured to have Waterstones Children’s Laureate Lauren Child in town and she was a real hit with her audience. “There were many events at the town hall, library, museum and other venues and the feedback we have had is very positive.
“The Comic-Con at Loughborough Leisure Centre was also very popular and we were pleased with positive response from people. This is the third year for the festival and we are already planning for next year.
“Loughborough has a rich history in illustrated literature as the famous Ladybird books were first produced here.
“The festival is an ideal opportunity to celebrate that heritage and hopefully encourage the next generation of readers, illustrators and authors.”