Events Walthamstow

Preview: Robot and the Bluebird

Rana Rastegari previews a musical adaptation that will be showing at Big Penny Social in Walthamstow on 21st July

Main image: Robot and the Bluebird book cover, Inset: Author David Lucas

A musical adaptation of the popular children’s book by David Lucas, The Robot and the Bluebird, will be coming to Big Penny Social in Walthamstow on 21st July.

The special family concert will be presented by Sheena Masson and will also have specially created animations by Victor Craven. Families and children will be able to enjoy the brand new orchestra and jazz inspired score composed by Raph Clarkson and performed by one of the leading orchestras globally, Britten Sinfonia. 

Ralph Clarkson, the composer of the show, told the Echo it was “important to have high quality live music accessible in local communities, showcasing orchestral music from a high quality orchestra”.

He added that the special showing for families and children includes “lots of interactive stuff for children, and families can become a part of the stories via interactive music.”

Highlighting why he chose to compose for The Robot and the Bluebird, Clarkson said: “I really loved the story because there is a huge amount of depth to it. It talks about potentially difficult subjects like compassion and self sacrifice; the robot finds meaning in his life by showing compassion to the bluebird”. 

”There’s also a potential way of seeing the end of the story as the robot’s death but not explicitly, so children can have their own interpretations of what happens. It isn’t as spoon fed; children aren’t told what to think or feel. The book invites curiosity for them about life’s big questions.”

The Robot and the Bluebird is a heart-warming story about the power of friendship and kindness. The show is expected to be an engaging and joyful day out for families and music lovers both. 

Doors will open at 11.10am on 21st July at Big Penny Social and the concert will begin at 11.30am, ending at 12.20pm. It is suitable for all age groups but is especially designed and written for children from ages four to seven.

Tickets and more information can be found here


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