BARNSLEY Libraries invited primary school pupils to take part in a nationwide celebration of Shakespeare Week.

The Library @ the Lightbox became a backdrop for a special performance by Laithes Primary School pupils on Monday, where they were joined by students across the country in an exciting production of The Tempest.

Children from the school worked with Jo Stokes from educational services firm As Creatives to prepare the performance.

Coun Margaret Sheard, cabinet support member for public health and communities, said: “We are extremely excited to be taking part in this year’s national Shakespeare Week celebrations.

“Barnsley Libraries once again have shown the commitment in working with partners to make art and culture more accessible to our residents and bring exciting performances for everyone to enjoy.”

Following the performance, pupils enjoyed various activities at the library, and got to take part in workshops led by local poet and broadcaster Ian McMillan, poet laureate Eloise Unerman and artist and printmaker Louise Wright where they created their own poetry inspired by Shakespeare, and designed The Tempest-themed bookmarks.

Sally Gray, project manager at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said: “It has been great to collaborate with the team at Barnsley Libraries to host the vibrant celebrations at Library @ the Lightbox.

“This year is significant as we mark ten years of Shakespeare Week.

“Over the past decade, we have reached hundreds of thousands of children and teachers, helping to ensure that children’s first experiences with Shakespeare are positive ones.

“We look forward to continuing to impact the lives of new generations through partnerships with cultural organisations and the enduring power of Shakespeare.”