Families looking for ways to help occupy their children during the summer may want to check out the events offered through Hillsborough County’s public libraries in north Hillsborough County.
Some events scheduled in coming weeks include puppet shows, art programs and robotics.
(Courtesy of Creative Arts Theatre, of the City of Tampa)
One coming attraction, offered through the Lutz Branch Library, is “Wild Florida, Alive,” a show that will be presented by the Creative Arts Theatre of the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department.
The presentation explores the wild side of Florida and helps spectators discover the animals that make the state unique.
It’s an environmental adventure, highlighting Florida’s endangered species through live theater, shadow puppetry, and music.
The program is geared toward those around age 5 and older. It will be offered at the Lutz Community Center, which is next to the library, on June 14 at 11 a.m., and again at 2 p.m. It lasts 30 to 45 minutes.
Meg Heimstead, supervisor for the Creative Arts Theatre and ArtReach, said she enjoys watching children’s reactions to the shows.
“It’s such a joyous experience, when a child sees a puppet come to life and that puppet interacts with them,” Heimstead said.
The performers aim to encourage children to read, she said, noting the presentations are based on, or inspired by, literary sources.
Another show being presented through the Lutz Branch Library features dogs and comedy.
“The Tricky Dogs Show” will be presented June 28 from 2 p.m. to 3.p.m.
Like the puppet show, this show, which features a circus-style dog comedy act, will be at the Lutz Community Center, 98 First Ave. N.W.
The Lutz Branch Library, which hosts a number of other special events every month, is at 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz.
Upcoming events at other area libraries are:
At the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa:
- “Robotix Blox,” June 14 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Kids will use Lego Mindstorms, and those taking part will work together on robot building and coding. Recommended for those ages 8 and older. The program is limited to 20 participants. Those wanting to join in must register no earlier than one hour before the program begins.
- “Art Over Summer,” June 21 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
This program encourages children between kindergarten and fifth grade to express themselves through art. They’ll be making items to take home.
- “Three Wishes on a Magic Fish,” June 22 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre will tell a story about a fisherman, a magic fish and three wishes. It is geared for kindergarten through fifth-graders.
- “Wild Florida, Alive,” June 25 from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Learn about Florida’s unique wild life through live theater, shadow puppetry and masks. For those age 5 and older.
At the New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., in Tampa:
- “Lost World Reptiles,” June 16, 11 a.m. to noon
In this program, for kindergarten through fifth-graders, Gino Sassani presents live snakes and reptiles in an educational program about the slithery creatures.
- “Books We Love to Sing,” June 30 from 11 a.m. to noon; and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Christine VanHorn will lead an interactive musical experience, bringing classic children’s books and songs to life. For kindergarten through fifth-graders.
For more information, visit HCPLC.org, and click on the Events & Classes tab, and then the By Branch tab.
Published June 1, 2016
