BHM Events - Storytelling, Arts and Crafts

BHM Events : Storytelling, Arts and Crafts 2008

Listings in London:

Wed 1 Oct - 30 Nov
HANDA'S SURPRISE SCHOOLS AND EYC TOUR
This theatre production of the children's classic set in a Kenyan village is aimed at children up to 6-years-old. Performed by two African-Caribbean actresses, this vibrant production combines colourful puppets, movement and song. Venue: Little Angel Theatre, 14 Dagmar Passage, N1 2DN. Info: 0207 527 5899.

Sat 4 Oct
STORYTIME AND AFRICAN MASK MAKING
Come and enjoy stories and make your own colourful African mask. Venue: Hackney Central Library, 1 Reading Lane, E8 1GQ. 2 - 3pm. Info: 0208 356 2542.

Fri 4 Oct
WORLD OF STORIES AND MUSIC
The Leopard and the Drum, a traditional tale from the Ashanti region of Ghana. Venue: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB. 10.30am, Info: 0208 543 4888.

Sat 4 Oct
MEET JOHN DEMAN
Meet John Deman, a black Greenwich Pensioner who left the Caribbean to join Admiral Nelson's fleet. Hear about his life at sea and as a Pensioner. Venue: Greenwich Foundation for the Old Royal Naval College, Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, SE10. Adm: Free. (Disabled Access). Various times. Info: 0208 269 4799 / www.oldroyalnavalcollege.org

Sat 4 Oct
JULIA JARMAN - PART OF THE BIG WRITE
This fantastic author of 'Class Two at the Zoo' will pop by to read one of her fabulous stories. Venue: Discover, 1 Bridge Terrace, Stratford, London E15. 11.30am & 2.30pm. Adm: £4 per adult/child, conc £3.50. Info: 0208 536 5555.

Sat 4 Oct
THE SUN HAS GOT HIS HAT ON
The premiere of the new Blue Sky Theatre production 'The Sun Has Got His Hat On', the show features colourful shadow puppets from land, sea and sky. Highlighting the reggae, soca, calypso and chutney rhythms of Trinidad Carnival. Venue: West Norwood Library and Nettlefold Hall, 1 Norwood High Street, London SE27 9JX. 2pm. Adm: £5 or £4.50 adv booking. Info: 0207 926 8092 / 0207 926 8070.

Sat 4 Oct
HENNA HANDS
Our talented Story Builders will paint your hands with a beautiful design. Venue: Discover, 1 Bridge Terrace, Stratford, London E15. 10.30am & 3.30pm. Adm: £4 per adult/child, conc £3.50. Info: 0208 536 5555.

Sat 4 & 11 Oct
LITTLE HIPPO AND HIS MAGIC PEN
An interactive performance in which the audience are invited to make their own use of Little Hippo's magic pen! Venue: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB. Adm: £6.50 children, £7.50 adults, £5.50 conc. Info: 0208 543 4888.

Sun 5 Oct
TELLING TALES: SANDRA AGARD
Come on a story walk with Anansi Spider and The Naughty Dog. Play with sun, moon and the sea and see what happens to the Very Mean King. With Sandra Agard, plus songs and games from Africa and the Caribbean . For ages 4+. Venue: Discover, 1 Bridge Terrace, Stratford, London E15. 2.30pm. Adm: £4 per adult, child £3.50. Info: 0208 536 5555.

Mon 6-7 Oct
PERCUSSION WORKSHOPS
Back by popular demand Winston Nzinga , demonstrates the use of percussion instruments and its influences in this interactive workshop. Venue: Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, London, SW2 1JQ. 4.30pm. Info: 0207 926 1056; (7 Oct) Streatham Library, 63 Streatham High Road, London SW16 1PL. 4.30pm. Info: 0207 926 6768.

Mon 6-10 Oct
IROKO INTERACTIVE THEATRE
Interactive performance for primary schools. Traditional African Theatre using live music, dance, songs and games to bring traditional fables, myths and legends to life. Adv booking. Venue: Brady Arts Centre, 192 - 196 Hanbury Street, London, E1 5HU. 10.30am-1.30pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 7900.

Mon 6 & 13 Oct
MAKE AN AFRICAN TRIBAL MASK
Fun and games session combined with a chance to start designing your own African mask then prepare the papier-mâché base. Venue: Idea Store, Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road E1 1BU. 10am-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 634 4332.

Tues 7 Oct
WE ALL WENT ON A SAFARI
A story and rhyme time session for children aged 0 - 4 and their parents and carers. Venue: Cubitt Town Library, Strattondale Street, Isle of Dogs E14 3HG. 10am-12pm. Info: 0207 987 3152.

Tues 7 Oct
STORYTELLING AND MASK-MAKING
Story telling and mask making session for under 5's only. All activities are for registered users of Sure Start Children's Centres only. New families, with children under 5, are welcome to register. (Under 5's). Venue: Sure Start Woolwich Riverside and Glyndon, St Nicholas Church Hall, St Nicholas Road, Plumstead SE18. Adm: Free. 1pm - 3pm. Info: 0208 836 9252.

Tues 7 Oct
WINDRUSH 60
Alexander D' Great presents an interactive story and music session for children. Venue: The Gate Library, 4-20 Woodgrange Road, Forest Gate, E7 0QH. 10am-11am. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 430 3838.

Tues 7 & 21 Oct
RHYME TIME AND STORYTELLING
Our regular sing, learn and play session for babies and toddlers leaps into Black History Month with traditional tales from Africa and the Caribbean. Venue: Idea Store, Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, E1 1BU. 10.30am-12pm. (Age 0-5) Full disabled access. Info: 020 7364 4332.

Tues 7, 14 & 21 Oct
BABY &TODDLERS - PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE
Enjoy a classic compendium of African and Caribbean folk tales and songs plus adaptations of traditional European tales. Venue: Brandon Library, Maddock Way, Cooks Road, SE17 3NH. 10.30am -12noon. Adm: Free (wheelchair access). Info: 0207 735 8261.

Wed 8 Oct
HANDA 'S SURPRISE
Enjoy the story of Handa's Surprise and a range of other activities, with fruit refreshments for children. Venue: Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place, Roman Road. 10.30am-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 4332.

Wed 8 Oct
WINDRUSH 60
Alexander D' Great presents an interactive story and music session for children. Venue: Beckton Globe Library, 1 Kingsford Way, Beckton, E6 5JQ. 2pm-3pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 430 4063.

Wed 8 Oct
DESIGN A SAFARI SCENE
After a singing session, children can get creative making a great safari scene packed full of wild animals. Age 0-5. Venue: Idea Store, Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, E1 1BU. 10.30am-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 634 4332.

Wed 8 Oct
FAMILY LEARNING WEEK
A range of exciting opportunities, for families to learn together in an informal setting. Venue: Idea Store, Chrisp St, 1 Vesey Path, Poplar, E14 6BT. Rhyme time: 10am - 12pm; Online learning for family: 4pm-6pm. Info: 0207 364 1505.

Fri 10 Oct
AFRICAN CARIBBEAN RHYME-TIME SESSIONS
Rhyme-time sessions place music at the centre of a child's speech and language development. Age 0-8 yrs. Venue: Blue Anchor Library: Blue Anchor Market Place, Southwark Park Road, SE16 3UQ. Adm: Free, (wheelchair access). Info: 0207 525 2000.

Fri 10 Oct
HANDA 'S HEN
A story and rhyme time session for children aged 0 - 4 and their parents and carers. Venue: Cubitt Town Library, Strattondale Street, Isle of Dogs, London E14 3HG. 10am-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 987 3152.

Fri 10 Oct
CHILDREN SPECIAL
A fantastic opportunity for children to meet and interview a writer and publisher with over 20 years of success in publishing for all children. Venue: The Emirates, Arsenal Stadium Conference Hall, London N7. 12noon -2pm. Adm: Free, book in adv. Info: 0207 254 9632 / www.word-power.org.uk

Fri 10 &14 Oct
CHILDREN BLACK HISTORY ACTIVITIES
Acknowledge the lives of great kings and queens of Africa. Why not enter the 'design a costume competition fit for an African King or Queen' plus quizzes and an interactive tales from Africa and the Caribbean. Venue: Clapham Library, 1 Northside, Clapham Common, London, SW4 0QW. Info: 0207 926 0717. And West Norwood Library and Nettlefold Hall, 1 Norwood High Street, London SE27 9JX. Info: 0207 926 8092 / 0207 926 8070.

Sat 11 Oct
CHILDREN'S BOK WEEK
Display of children's artwork at the Idea Store, storytelling session and a prize draw. Venue: Idea Store, Chrisp St, 1 Vesey Path, Poplar, E14 6BT. 2pm-4pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 1505.

Sat 11 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE
Travel to Kenya and meet Handa with her best friend Akeyo with her. Filled with the rich colours, sights and sounds of Kenya, audience participation and African song this will surprise all the family. The audience will be asked to remove their shoes! Venue: Half Moon Young People's Theatre, 43 White Horse Road, London, E1 0ND. 11am-11.30am, 1pm-1.30pm, 3pm-3.30pm. Adm: £5. Info: 0207 709 8900.

Sat 11 Oct
ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
Stories and Rhymes from the Caribbean and Africa, plus a whole range of activities for children at all libraries. Children aged 4-10 years are encouraged to bring their parent(s) or guardian. Venue: York Gardens Library, 34 Lavender Road, London SW11 2UG. 12.30pm- 1.30pm. Info: 0208 871 7471.

Sat 11 Oct
STORY-TIME WITH PATSY SCOTT
Patsy Scott reads stories from the Caribbean, including the well-loved Anansi stories. Especially for families. Venue: Marcus Garvey Children's Library, Tottenham Green Centre, 1 Philip Lane, N15 4JA. 3.30pm - 4.30pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 489 5309.

Sat 11 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits at the Family Learning Festival opening ceremony. Children can make a grasslands collage and Handa puppet. Under 5's. Venue: Greenwich Library & Information Service, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF. Adm: Free. (Disabled access). 11.30am - 4.30pm.

Sat 11 Oct
TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN SMOOTHIE MAKING SESSION
Children of all ages are invited to come along and make smoothies using Caribbean fruits. Fresh fruit and juices will be used. Venue: Hackney Central Library, 1 Reading Lane, E8 1GQ. 2- 4pm. Info: 0208 356 2542.

Sat 11 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE
Collage making based on the story by Eileen Brown. Refreshments will be provided. For age 6-12. Venue: CLR James Library, 24-30 Dalston Lane, E8 3AZ. 10.30am- 12pm. Info: 0208 356 1665.

Sat 11 & 12 Oct
THE GRUFFALO PUPPET SHOW
The Story Builders perform a shadow puppet show of the Gruffalo in our new exhibition Festivals of Light. Then make your own Gruffalo shadow puppet and put on your own show. Venue: Discover, 1 Bridge Terrace, Stratford, London E15. 11.30am & 2.30pm. Adm: £4 per adult/child, conc £3.50. Info: 0208 536 5555.

Sat 11 & 25 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Ferrier Library, Telemann Square SE3 9YR. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 11am - 11.30am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Sun 12 Oct
LIGHTER THAN AIR
Danny Schlesinger invites you to enter a strange, surreal and silly world...Using circus skills, eccentric performance and physical comedy loaded with participation, surprises and laughs. Age 4+. Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. 3pm. Adm: £6, conc and children £4.50. Info: 0208 692 4446 / www.thealbany.org.uk

Sun 12 & 26 Oct
BHM KIDZONE (ARTS & CRAFTS)
Fun weekly activity for all children aged 3-7 including storytelling, crafts, films and games. Venue: Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place, Roman Road, east London. 1.30pm-3pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 4332.

Mon 13 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Slade Library, Erindale SE18 2QQ. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 10am - 11am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Mon 13 & 27 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Woolwich Library, Calderwood Street SE18 6QZ. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 11am -11.30am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Mon 13 & 27 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: New Eltham Library, Southwood Rd SE9 3QT. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. Mon 2.30pm - 3pm. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Mon 13 & 27 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Charlton Library, Charlton House, SE7 8RE. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 10am - 10.30am & 11am - 11.30am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Tues 14 Oct
AFRICAN ARTS & CRAFTS
Arts and Crafts using fabric tie-dye for under 5's. All activities are for registered users of Sure Start Children's Centres only. New families, with children under 5, are welcome to register by contacting the Sure Start office. Under 5's. Venue: Sure Start Woolwich Riverside and Glyndon, Slade Community Hall, Pendrell Road, SE18. Adm: Free. 1pm-3pm. Info: 0208 836 9252.

Tues 14 Oct
SO MUCH
A story and rhyme time session for children aged 0-4 and their parents and carers. Venue: Cubitt Town Library, Strattondale Street, Isle of Dogs, London E14 3HG. 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm. Info: 0207 987 3152.

Tues 14 & 28 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: West Greenwich Library, Greenwich High Road SE10 8NN. (Disabled Access). 10.30am- 11am. Then at 2.45pm- 3.15pm at Venue: Slade Library, Erindale SE18 2QQ. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Tues 14 & 28 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Venue: Coldharbour Library, William Barefoot Drive, SE9 3AY. (Disabled Access) Adm: Free. 2.15pm - 2.45pm. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Tues 14, 28 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Explore Handa's sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Blackheath Library, Old Dover Rd SE3 7BT. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 2pm - 2.45pm. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Tues 14 & 28 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Plumstead Library, Plumstead High Street SE18 1JL. (Disabled Access. Adm: Free. 10am - 10.30am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Wed 15 Oct
VERNA WILKINS AND RUDOLPH WALKER
Meet Eastenders star Rudolph Walker OBE along with top-selling children's author Verna Wilkins as part of the National Year of Reading. Children only. Venue: Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, London SW2 1JQ.10.30am. Info: 0207 926 1056.

Wed 15 Oct
MAKE AN AFRICAN TRIBAL MASK
Transport your child around the globe from your very own library with this chance to make a traditional African mask. There'll be music and singing too! Age 0 - 5. Venue: Idea Store, Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, E1 1BU. 10.30am-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 634 4332.

Wed 15 & 29 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Explore Handa's sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits and make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Claude Ramsey Library, Thamesmere Leisure Centre SE28 8DT. (Disabled Access. Adm: Free. Wed 10.30am - 11am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Wed 15 & 29 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Eltham Library, Eltham High Street SE9 1TS. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 10.30am - 11am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Wed 15 & 29 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Ferrier Library, Telemann Square SE3 9YR. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 11am - 11.30am.

Thurs 16 Oct
AFRICAN CARIBBEAN RHYMETIME SESSIONS
Rhyme-time sessions singing, clapping and learning new rhymes is fun. Parents can also borrow nursery rhyme books. Age 0-8 years. Venue: Kingswood Library: Seeley drive, SE21 3RW. Adm: Free, (wheelchair access). Info: 0207 525 2000.

Thurs 16 Oct
SANDRA AGARD
An interactive story performance featuring tales, songs and children's games from Africa and the Caribbean. Venue: Green Street Library, 337-341 Green Street, Upton Park, E13 9AR. 10am-11.30am. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 472 4101.

Thurs 16 Oct
SANDRA AGARD
An interactive story performance featuring tales, songs and children's games from Africa and the Caribbean. Venue: East Ham Library, High Street South, E6 6EL. Info: 0208 430 3648. 2pm-3.30pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 472 4101.

Thurs 16 & 30 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Charlton Library, Charlton House, SE7 8RE. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 2.30pm - 3pm. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Thurs 16 & 30 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Eltham Library, Eltham High Street SE9 1TS. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 2pm - 2.30pm. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Thurs 16 & 30 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5. Venue: Blackheath Library, Old Dover Rd SE3 7BT. (Disabled Access) Adm: Free. 2pm-2.30pm. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Thurs 16 & 30 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: East Greenwich Library, Woolwich Road SE10 0RL.(Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 2.30pm - 3pm. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Thurs 16, 30 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Handa's sack is full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Woolwich Library, Calderwood Street SE18 6QZ. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 11am - 11.45am. Then at 2.30pm - 3pm at West Greenwich Library, Greenwich High Road SE10 8NN. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Fri 17 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE
A story and rhyme time session for children aged 0-4 and their parents and carers. Venue: Cubitt Town Library, Strattondale Street, Isle of Dogs, London E14 3HG. 10am-12pm. Info: 0207 987 3152.

Fri 17 & 31 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Eltham Library, Eltham High Street SE9 1TS. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 10.30am - 11am. Info: 0209 921 5747.

Fri 17 & 31 Oct
HANDA'S SURPRISE AND HANDA'S HEN
Meet Handa in person and explore her story sack full of surprising safari animals and amazing exotic fruits. Children can make a grasslands collage with animals and a Handa puppet. Under 5s. Venue: Abbey Wood Library, Eynsham Drive, SE2 9PT. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. 10.30am -11am.

Sat 18 Oct
LITTLE HIPPO & HIS MAGIC PEN
It's Little Hippo's Birthday and he likes the red pen filled with magical ideas, but how to get them out? Based on the story by West African writer Alain Serge Dzotap, with puppetry, interaction and magic. Venue: Half Moon Young People's Theatre, 43 White Horse Road, London, E1 0ND. 11am-11.45am, 1pm-1.45pm, 3pm-3.45pm. Adm: £5. Info: 0207 709 8900.

Sat 18 Oct
TREASURES OF THE RAINFOREST
A Guyanese fusion of music and storytelling to engage and ignite the imagination. Venue: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB. Adm: £6.50 children, £7.50 adults, £5.50 conc. Info: 0208 543 4888.

Sat 18 Oct
SONGS AND STORYTIME
Old Skool playground songs and storytime. For children of all ages. Venue: Hackney Central Library, 1 Reading Lane, E8 1GQ. 2 pm- 3pm. Info: 0208 356 2542.

Sat 18 Oct
TREASURES OF THE RAINFOREST
A participatory, Guyanese fusion of music and storytelling to engage and ignite the imagination. Venue: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB. Adm: £6.50 children, £7.50 adults, conc £5.50. Info: 0208 543 4888.

Sat 18 Oct
AFRICAN CARIBBEAN RHYMETIME SESSIONS
Rhyme-time sessions, music, singing, clapping and learning new rhymes. Age 0-8 years. Venue: Newington Library, 155-157 Walworth Road, SE17 1RS. Adm: Free (wheelchair access). Info: 0207 525 2000.

Sun 19 Oct
BHM KIDZONE (GAMES)
Fun weekly activity for all children aged 3-7 including storytelling, crafts, films and games. Venue: Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place, Roman Road, east London. 1.30pm-3pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 4332.

Tues 21 Oct
THE SELFISH CROCOD ILE
A story and rhyme time session for children aged 0-4 and their parents and carers. Venue: Cubitt Town Library, Strattondale Street, Isle of Dogs, London E14 3HG. 10am-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 987 3152.

Wed 22 Oct
ANANSI THE SPIDER
Singing, arts and crafts session and tales of Anansi the spider, a well-known character in West African folklore. Children have the chance to make their own spider character! (Age 0-5). Venue: Idea Store, Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, E1 1BU. 10.30am-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 634 4332.

Fri 24 Oct
VALERIE BLOOM AUTHOR AND POET VISIT
Join Valerie Bloom as she reads stories, poems and extracts from her latest book "The Tribe". Invited schools only. For 8 yrs plus. Venue: Greenwich Library & Information Service, West Greenwich Library, Greenwich High Road, SE10 8NN. Adm: Free - Adv booking. (Disabled Access). 10am -11am & 11.30 -12.30pm. Info: 0208 317 4466 / www.valbloom.co.uk.

Thurs 23 Oct
AFRICAN CARIBBEAN RHYMETIME SESSIONS
Rhyme-time sessions place music at the centre of a child's speech and language development. Age 0-8 years. Venue: Peckham Library, 122 Peckham Hill Street, SE15 5JR. Adm: Free. (wheelchair access). Info: 0207 525 2000.

Fri 24 Oct
DRAMA AND STORYTELLING WORKSHOP
Under 5's African Caribbean music, drama and storytelling in traditional costumes. All activities are for registered users of Sure Start Children's Centres only. Register by contacting the Sure Start office. Venue: Sure Start Woolwich Riverside and Glyndon, Glyndon Community Centre, 75 Raglan Road, Plumstead, SE18 7LB. Adm: Free, adv booking. (Disabled Access). 1pm - 3pm. Info: 0208 836 9252.

Sat 25 Oct
SING-A-SONG DADS
With Handa's Hen. Unider 5s. Venue: Woolwich Library, Calderwood Street SE18 6QZ. (Disabled Access). Adm: Free. Sat 11am-11.30am. Info: 0208 921 5747.

Sat 25 Oct
THE BIRD BOK
Journey with Eric and Bill from Africa, across stormy seas to England, in search of a rare bird of prey. Using a giant pop-up book and puppetry. Venue: Half Moon Young People's Theatre, 43 White Horse Road, London, E1 0ND. Various time from11am. Adm: £5. Info: 0207 709 8900.

Sat 25 Oct
ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
Play traditional African and Caribbean games. Learn to play these exciting games including mancala. For 10-14 years. Venue: York Gardens Library, 34 Lavender Road, London SW11 2UG. 3 pm- 4pm. Info: 0208 871 7471.

Sun 26 Oct
MUSICAL TALES OF PRIDE
Enjoy interactive storytelling inspired by African and Caribbean tales, poetry and live drumming and explore how we see ourselves and understand each other. Venue: Museum Of London Docklands, West India Quay, E14 4AL. Various times from 12.30pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0870 444 3850.

Sat 25 Oct
MEET JOHN DEMAN
Meet John Deman, a black Greenwich Pensioner who left the Caribbean to join Admiral Nelson's fleet. Hear about his life at sea and in Greenwich Hospital as a Pensioner. For 7 years plus. Venue: Greenwich Foundation for the Old Royal Naval College, Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10. Adm: Free. (Disabled Access) 12noon, 1pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm. Info: 0208 269 4799 / www.oldroyalnavalcollege.org.

Sun 26 Oct
THE MUSICIANS OF BREMEN
Adapted from the Brothers Grimm tale, this is the hilarious story of Bruno the donkey and his band of musical friends who set off for Bremen in search of their fortunes. Age 4-7. Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. 3pm. Adm: £6, conc & children 4.50. Info: 0208 692 4446 / www.thealbany.org.uk

Mon 27 Oct
WINDRUSH STORYTELLING
Actor and storyteller Anika Wilson goes on a journey down memory lane to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the arrival of the Empire Windrush in a costumed performance about a woman's journey from Jamaica to join her husband for a new life in England. Age 5 to adult. Venues: Central Children's Library, Croydon Clocktower, Katharine Street Croydon CR9 1ET (11am); then Ashburton Library, Ashburton Learning Village, Shirley Road, Addiscombe CR9 7AL. (2.30pm). Adm: Free. Info: 0208 726 6900.

Mon 27 Oct
ANANSI STORIES
Story-time followed by a session of African animal painting & face painting. Venue: Coombes Croft Library, Tottenham High Road, London, N17 8AG. 1.30pm - 3pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 489 8771.

Mon 27 Oct
TRIBAL POTATO PRINT-MAKING
A fun event for Under 5s, using potatoes to create prints inspired by tribal designs. Venue: Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place, Roman Road, east London. 10.30pm-12pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 4332.

Mon 27, 29 & 31 Oct
BRITISH MUSEUM ACTIVITIES FOR BHM
A family event with storytelling games and craft. plus opportunity to handle objects from the past. Venue: Swiss Cottage Library, 88 Avenue Road, London NW3 3HA.10.30am-4 pm.

Tues 28 Oct
WINDRUSH STORYTELLING
Actor and storyteller Anika Wilson goes on a journey down memory lane to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the arrival of the Empire Windrush in a costumed performance about a woman's journey from Jamaica to join her husband for a new life in England. Age 5 to adult. Venues: Thornton Heath Library, Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath CR7 7JB (11am); Then Norbury Library, London Road/Beatrice Avenue, Norbury SW16 4UW (2.30pm). Adm: Free. Info: 0208 726 6900.

Tues 28 Oct
STORYTELLING & AFRICAN MASK MAKING
Listen to some authentic African stories from a master storyteller, and dazzle your family in the afternoon with some African Mask Making. Venue: Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place, Roman Road, east London. 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 4332.

Tues 28 Oct
STORYTIME WITH PATSY SCOTT
Patsy reads stories from the Caribbean, including the well-loved Anansi stories. Especially for families. Anansi stories originated in Ghana. Anansi is one of the most important characters of West African lore. Venue: Hornsey Library, Haringey Park, N8 9JA. 2pm - 3.30pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 489 1118.

Tues 28 Oct
HALF TERM BHM FAMILY DAY
Interactive storytelling and craft workshop, inspired by Anansi Tales, for ages 5 - 7yrs and parents/carers. Venue: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB. 10.30am - 12 noon. Adm: £7.50 per child, accompany adults Free. Info: 0208 543 4888.

Tues 28 Oct
TAP 'N' RAP (INFANTS)
Come and hear Malaika Rose Stanley's brand new story: Baby Ruby Bawled Then help to make another one. Fun for 5 -7 year-olds and accompanying adults. Venue: Ealing Central Library, 103 Ealing Broadway Centre, The Broadway, London, W5 5JY. 2pm-2.45pm & . 3pm-4pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 567 3670.

Tues 28 Oct
BHM FAMILY DAY
Interactive storytelling and craft workshop, inspired by Anansi Tales, for ages 5 - 7yrs and parents/carers. Venue: Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB. 10.30am - 12 noon. Adm: £7.50 child, accompany adults Free. Info: 0208 543 4888.

Tues 28 Oct
TELLING TALES WITH SANDRA AGARD
Stories from Africa and the Caribbean. Venue: Clapton Library, Northwold Road, E5 8RA. Disabled Access. 11am - 11.45am. Info: 020 8356 1620.

Tues 28 Oct
TAP 'N' RAP (JUNIORS)
Come along and listen to an exclusive preview of Malaika Rose Stanley's first new book for 8-10 year olds: Ms Bubble's Troubles. Then tap 'n' rap your way to a possible starring role in her next one. Venue: Ealing Central Library, 103 Ealing Broadway Centre, the Broadway, London, W5 5JY. 3pm-4pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 567 3670.

Tues 28 Oct
ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
Traditional African and Caribbean food & drink. An opportunity to make traditional African and Caribbean food and drink, including vegetarian couscous and exotic fruit punch. For 7-13 years. Venue: York Gardens Library, 34 Lavender Road, London SW11 2UG. 3.30pm - 4.30pm. Info: 0208 871 7471.

Tues 28 Oct
AFRICAN AND CARIBBEAN FOLK TALES
Storytelling for children. Venue: Highgate Library, Shepherds Hill, N6 5QT. 10.30am-11am. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 489 8772.

Tues 28-29 Oct
DESIGN AND CREATE A HEADPIECE WORKSHOP
Create your own headpiece from traditional cloth fit for a king or queen. Learn traditional methods of head wrapping and win a prize. All designs displayed in Lambeth Libraries. Ages 6 - 12 years. Venue: Clapham Library, 1 Northside, Clapham Common, London, SW4 0QW. 2.30pm- 3.30pm. Info: 0207 926 0717. And Streatham Library, 63 Streatham High Road, London SW16 1PL. 2.30pm-3.30pm. Info: 0207 926 6768.

Tues 28-30 Oct
ANIMATION WORKSHOP OF BLACK ICONS
Celebrating Black Icons through the ages: Martin Luther King, Mary Seacole, Stevie Wonder, Linford Christie, Nelson Mandela and many more, bringing them to life using stop-motion animation! Ages 7 - 12 years. Venue: West Norwood Library and Nettlefold Hall, 1 Norwood High Street, London, SE27 9JX. 2.30 - 4pm. Info: 0207 926 8092 / 0207 926 8070. And Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, London SW2 1JQ. 2.30 - 4pm. Adv booking. Info: 0207 926 1056.

Tues 28-31 Oct
AFRICAN JEWELLERY WORKSHOPS
Find out about the origins of African jewellery in these fun practical jewellery making sessions with Jessie Van Zanten. For ages 6 - 11 years. Venue: Lambeth Archives and Minet Library, 52 Knatchbull Road, London, SE5 9QY 2pm-3pm & 3.15-5.15pm. Info: 0207 926 6073 / 0207 926 6076; (29 Oct) Durning Library, 167 Kennington Lane, London, SE11 4HF. Info: 020 7926 8682; (30 Oct) South Lambeth Library, 180 South Lambeth Road, London, SW8 1QP. Info: 0207 926 0705; (31 Oct) Carnegie Library, 188 Herne Hill Road, London SE24 0AG. Info: 0207 926 6050.

Wed 29 Oct
MAKE YOUR OWN MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
Make and decorate your own instruments to shake, rattle and roll to some traditional African and Caribbean music. Age 5+. Venue: Idea Store, Whitechapel, 321 Whitechapel Road, E1 1BU. 2pm-4pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 634 4332.

Wed 29 Oct
WINDRUSH STORYTELLING
Join actor and storyteller Anika Wilson for a journey down memory lane to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the arrival of the Empire Windrush via a costumed performance telling the story of one woman's journey from Jamaica to join her husband for a new life in England. Age 5 to adult. Venue: South Norwood Library, Lawrence Road, South Norwood SE25 5AA. 2.30pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 726 6900.

Wed 29 - 30 Oct
SHOE BABY
A fantastical, funny adventure about a baby who takes to the sea, the air, the zoo - all in a shoe! Adapted from the book by Joyce Dunbar. Ages 2-6. Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. 12pm & 3pm. Adm: £6, conc & children £4.50. Info: 0208 692 4446 / www.thealbany.org.uk

Thurs 30 Oct
LIGHT FEVER
Join artist Jenny Staff as she helps you to create fabulous pictures with paper and light. Venue: Discover, 1 Bridge Terrace, Stratford, London E15. 11.30am & 2.30pm. Adm: £4 per adult/child, conc £3.50. Info: 0208 536 5555.

Thurs 30 Oct
WOODEN JEWELLERY MAKING
Inspired by traditional wooden tribal jewellery, we're giving you the chance to have a go at creating your own. Make a fashion statement with brightly coloured bracelets and necklaces of wooden beads. Age 6+. Venue: Idea Store Bow, 1 Gladstone Place, Roman Road, east London. 2pm-4pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0207 364 4332.

Fri 31 Oct
A NEST OF VIPERS
Meet Catherine Johnson, the author of this book and find out about the Hopkins and their adventures. After you've met the heroes of her book make your own puppet character and theatre set and act out the story. Venue: Museum Of London Docklands, West India Quay, E14 4AL. 12.30pm-1.15pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0870 444 3850.

Fri 31 Oct
IROKO
Family Fun Day - African Drumming and Storytelling. Venue: Keith Axon Centre Keith Axon Centre, 160-170 Grove Road, Chadwell Heath, Redbridge. 2pm-3.30pm. Adm: £2. Info: 0208 708 0790.

Fri 31 Oct
SAFARI TREASURE HUNT
Find African animals and other clues hidden around the library and in the garden. Family Event. Venue: Highgate Library, Shepherds Hill, N6 5QT. 2.30pm - 4pm. Adm: Free. Info: 0208 489 8772.

NOVEMBER

Sun 9 Nov
HOOF!
A horse's Quest for a herd, humour and a life without shoes - a physical theatre show for children and childish adults. Age 3+ Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. 3pm. Adm: £6, conc £4.50. Info: 0208 692 4446 / www.thealbany.org.uk

Sun 23 Nov
THE LITTLE RED HEN
This timeless folktale is re-told, re-recorded and re-animated by the unswervingly energetic Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company. Age 3+ Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. 3pm. Adm: £6, conc & children £4.50. Info: 0208 692 4446 / www.thealbany.org.uk

DECEMBER

Sun 7 Dec
BEST FRIENDS
Billy is starting school and it's a bit scary! Time to call on Mudge (his imaginary friend) for some help. With a pinch of fun, imagination and mischief, a big dollop of friendship and a little drop of bravery, Billy rises to the challenge. Age 4-7. Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. 3pm. Adm: £6, conc & children £4.50. Info: 0208 692 4446.

Tues 9 - 14 Dec
Handa's Surprise
Travel to Kenya and follow in Handa's footsteps as she visits her best friend Akeyo. Handa is taking 7 delicious fruits as a surprise - but 7 different animals have 7 very different ideas. Live music and song combine to create an intimate, magical production. Age 2-5. Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. Various times. Adm: £6, conc & children £5. Info: 0208 692 4446.

Sat 20 Dec
UPFRONT CHRISTMAS COMEDY JAM
UK comedy pioneer and star of The Real McCoy to Absolutely Fabulous, Felix Dexter digs into his crate of colourful characters to deliver his famous edgy stand up. Felix is joined by silky smooth veteran double act Jefferson & Whitfield and cocky new boy on the block, London-centric Kevin Jay. Venue: The Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, London SE8 4AG. 8pm. Adm: £10 adv, £12 door. Info: 0208 692 4446.

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