School students across South Tyneside are swapping their pens and pencils for magic wands.
All this week (March 9 – March 12), Magic Andrew is visiting schools across the borough as part of the South Tyneside International Magic Festival 2015.
Acting on behalf of organisers, South Tyneside Council, Andrew has devised a series of tricks and illusions specifically catered to appeal to younger audiences and tackle a number of key issues.
Some schools, including Marine Park Primary, South Shields and St Matthew’s Primary and Bede Burn Primary, both in Jarrow, have opted for all encompassing performances, while others have selected a more targeted subject matter.
This includes St Bede’s Primary School, Jarrow and Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School, South Shields which have both chosen a Science-based show, as well as Monkton Infants School, South Shields, and four other schools using magic to tackle the perils of Stranger Danger.
Michael Arthur, Headteacher at Bede Burn Primary School, Jarrow, said: “We’re always looking for new and vibrant ways to engage our students and the Magic Festival offers the ideal way for us to do just that.”
The school performances, which last for around an hour each, form part of a week of activities taking place as part of the South Tyneside International Magic Festival 2015.
Other highlights in the 12th annual event, organised by South Tyneside Council with help from magician John Archer, include a Family Magic Extravaganza and two International Gala Shows being held at the Customs House, South Shields on Wednesday (March 11), Friday (March 13) and Saturday (March 14) respectively.
There is also a three day convention specifically for professional performers and the most ardent magic fans, which runs at the Customs House until Sunday (March 15).
Councillor Alan Kerr, Deputy Leader of South Tyneside Council with responsibility for Culture and Leisure, said: “The schools programme is designed to make the South Tyneside International Magic Festival accessible to all ages and to engage the wider community as much as possible.
“It makes an excellent addition to the festival, alongside our three public events and it’s always great to see how much the students enjoy it.”
Further details and a full line-up for the South Tyneside International Magic Festival can also be found atwww.southtyneside.info/magicfestival
Tickets for the Family Magic Extravaganza and International Gala Shows, priced from £7 and £12 respectively, are available now from the Customs House on 0191 4541234 or www.thecustomshouse.co.uk.