Suffolk Community Libraries will return to the UK’s only free beachfront festival this weekend, bringing a packed programme of storytelling, music, poetry and creative activities to First Light Festival in Lowestoft on 20 and 21 June.
The library service’s festival teepee will offer a welcoming space where stories come to life in unique and unexpected ways. Across the weekend, library staff and special guests will host live performances and interactive sessions for all ages on the sand, celebrating reading, creativity and community as part of the National Year of Reading.
One of the weekend highlights will be a special performance of ‘Thumbelina’ by Norwich Puppet Theatre at 1pm on Sunday. Using traditional glove, rod and shadow puppets, the enchanting Hans Christian Anderson fairytale offers a magical introduction to theatre for the whole family.
The weekend’s programme also marks Father’s Day on Sunday 21 June with ‘Poems for Pops’, a series of live poetry performances celebrating dads, father figures and family relationships in all their forms.
Throughout the weekend, the team from Lowestoft Library will present Songs & Stories on the Beach, combining interactive storytelling with well-loved children’s books and sing-alongs.
Sally Garwood, Senior Creative Producer for Suffolk Community Libraries, said:
“First Light Festival has become an exciting and important part of our annual calendar at Suffolk Community Libraries. We’re looking forward to filling the teepee with another weekend of imaginative storytelling, music and creativity. From puppet theatre to singing workshops, there’s something to inspire and entertain people of every age.”
Councillor June Mummery, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Coastal Affairs, Communities and Public Health, added:
“It’s great to see Suffolk Community Libraries at the First Light Festival. Bringing the library down to the beach is a unique way for local families to experience the wide range of activities that the library service has to offer.”
The Suffolk Community Libraries programme for the festival also includes:
Chrissie Sains – Author of ‘Alien in the Jam Factory’ and the series ‘Beastopia!’, Saturday 12:00 – 12:45 (BSL) & 14:00 – 14:45
Chrissie is the engaging author of ‘An Alien in the Jam Factory’ series and ‘Beastopia’. Chrissie will give a sneak peek into her life as a storyteller, sharing her journey from reluctant reader to published author and sharing some of her earliest writing attempts that are sure to bring a giggle. Chrissie inspires children to let their mind run wild and unleash the power of their own imaginations through the use of games, visual aids, and props. Children are given the confidence to believe in their ideas and explore their imagination!
Lowestoft 50 Living Library – In Conversation with Charlotte McGuinness & Jack Partridge, Saturday 16:40 – 17:15
To celebrate Lowestoft – the stories and people that shape the town – photographer Charlotte McGuinness joins us for a special in conversation event, exploring the project she created as Storyteller in Residence for Suffolk Community Libraries, ‘Illuminating Portraits’, alongside Jack Partridge who took part in the project as a contributor.
The Deep Blue Story Gathering, all day Saturday
Coalesce Dance Theatre is an award-winning contemporary dance company based in Manchester. Coalesce makes captivating and uplifting dance for rural, outdoor, and unusual touring venues, ensuring their work is both accessible and people focused.
This summer, Coalesce Dance Theatre will be travelling across Suffolk’s coastal communities to gather stories, memories and experiences that will help shape an exciting new theatre production touring Suffolk’s libraries in 2027 / 2028.
From bustling ports and fishing towns to seaside villages and beaches, Coalesce want to hear from the people who know Suffolk’s coastline best.
Join Coalesce at First Light Festival, where the team will be spending time on the beach meeting people of all ages. Come and share your memories, celebrate your connection to the sea, and help create a new production inspired by Suffolk’s coastal communities.
Morning Chorus: Singing for Wellbeing Workshop, Sunday from 11:00 – 12:15
Join us for a soul-soothing singing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or have never sung a note in public, this welcoming workshop invites people of all ages and abilities to participate. Led by Cohere Arts, you’ll engage in vocal exercises, mindfulness techniques, and group singing to boost your mood and connect with others.
No experience necessary – just bring your voice, your enthusiasm, and a willingness to have fun!
Age suitability: Suitable for adults and children 11+
Thumbelina by Norwich Puppet Theatre, Sunday from 13:00 – 13:40
Based on the tale by Hans Christian Andersen…
There was once a little girl so small she could float on a lily pad and ride on the back of a dragonfly… Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of a girl no bigger than a thumb and her encounters with a frog, mouse, mole and swallow, is played gently amongst gardening tools, leading her to ultimate happiness in the kingdom of flowers. Using traditional glove, rod and shadow puppets, this is an excellent introduction to the magic of theatre.
Poems for Pops – Celebrating Father’s Day, Sunday from 14:20 – 15:20 (BSL)
Join us this Father’s Day for Poems for Pops – a series of live poetry performances and activities exploring dads, father figures and family relationships in all their forms.
These poetry pieces may be funny, thoughtful, tender or bittersweet, offering honest reflections suitable for families. Expect powerful spoken word with heart, humour and emotional depth.
Songs & Stories on the Beach (Wordplay), throughout the weekend
Sing along to rhymes and enjoy interactive storytelling of classic and beautiful lunar inspired tales, such as The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson, Shark in the Dark by Nick Sharratt, and Commotion in the Ocean by Andreae Giles, just to name a few. Every session will be filled with fun, laughter, and learning!
BSL will be available for some of these sessions.
Chill out space with music and lullabies, throughout the weekend
Stop off in our tepee to chill in the shade – nap, eat or just have a moment of quiet.
5asideCHESS, throughout the weekend
Mix strategy with sunshine by meeting new opponents and taking part in some friendly competition on the beach! 5asideCHESS is not about being a chess master, it’s about connection and community. 5asideCHESS is a mini version of the old game used as an international, recognisable language and is a great way to play and socialise. So, whether you’re a grandmaster or a complete beginner, enjoy the thrill of the game at the library tepee.
For full details and timings visit the First Light website at firstlightlowestoft.com