The Spring release a new programme of events for all the family

 

The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre in Havant has unveiled a fun-packed and diverse programme of family-friendly events to keep all ages entertained and inspired over the half-term holidays and beyond.

 

The Spring recognises the importance of providing a rich and varied cultural experience for families in the community and is keen to build on the success of previous popular events such as their immersive Fairy Tale Forest over Christmas.

 

Another successful scheme launched in 2021 for families was their Play Artist in Residence project. The first of its kind, the initiative was designed to create joyful and interactive activities for audiences across all areas of The Spring’s programme.

 

Three professional play artists will join the team for a season each to co-create high quality and playful interactions in the arts centre and across the community. This January saw Samm Anga take over as the chosen Artist in Residence. A Sound Artist by practice with a strong background in music, Samm will help to bring the centre’s programme to life and explore the concept of ‘play’ through the powerful world of sound with noisemaking workshops, interactive installations and even some spontaneous community improvisation and performances.

 

As part of The Spring’s commitment to be a place for everyone including children of all ages, the centre has this year reduced the price of a family ticket to just £3 per person, to ensure more families can enjoy their high quality and engaging arts and culture programme.

 

Sophie Fullerlove, Director of The Spring comments: “We are delighted to welcome thousands of families through our doors every year and strongly believe that cost shouldn’t be a barrier. We want to nurture our younger audiences and introduce them to a wide array of cultural experiences here on their doorstep, from theatre performances to live shows and interactive events and workshops. Our hope is the new programme sparks the imagination of both the young and old and provides families the space and opportunity to explore their creativity and have plenty of fun together along the way.”

 

Family-friendly events coming up at The Spring this half-term and beyond include:

Block Busters: Making Noise with Foley Art (21-25 February 10:00am and 2:00pm)

The Spring’s Play Artist in Residence Samm Anga will be offering families the chance to explore the fun world of film sound effects. A foley artist is someone who recreates noises for films, television shows, adverts and video games using everyday items and specialist recording equipment.  Sound Artist Samm will be hosting free, interactive drop-in workshops for all ages exploring the tricks used to make imaginative and powerful sound effects.

 

Pebble on the Beach (26th February 11:30am and 2:30pm)

Pebble on the Beach features a lively mix of dancing, singing and puppetry and will magically transport you to a day at the seaside. The heart-warming and affirming tale is suitable for children aged three and upwards.

 

Silly Squirrel (25-27 March at various locations, tickets are free)

The Spring is excited to be taking Silly Squirrel to various locations around the Havant Borough. This playful new family story is a non-ticketed performance and features puppets, gentle interaction and lots of fun and laughter, perfect for children ages 0-7.

 

Families are also invited to enjoy the Museum’s Activity Trail while visiting the centre. The trail encourages families to discover fascinating facts and artefacts together and learn about Havant’s rich history with a free activity booklet designed by A Line Art.

 

Tickets for family events are subject to availability and more information can be found at www.thespring.co.uk

 

Image credit: Samm Play Artist In Residence at The Spring (Credit James White Photography)