'All the world’s a stage...'

So said William Shakespeare – a famous storyteller from Tudor times who dazzled audiences with his plays. A popular place to see Shakespeare’s shows in action was The Globe Theatre in London. Now just imagine that you are in the Tudor era, you have stepped back in time and into the spotlight. You are the Star Storyteller at The Globe Theatre in London and what’s more – we need you! The Globe Theatre is about to receive a right royal visit from none other than Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth I. You, Star Storyteller, have been charged with two very special tasks.

Task One Create an exciting story to be performed on stage for Queen Elizabeth I.

Task Two Design a poster for the performance. Now for this task it’s important to know that the Queen is not coming to the theatre alone, oh no, Her Majesty will be bringing her favourite Royal companion – a fantastically fluffy dog. Queen Elizabeth wishes for the poster to have her beloved pooch’s name on written it it. But what is her dog’s name? Follow the three steps below to find out.

Write a story in 3 steps

These three steps will help you to create a brilliant story to impress Queen Elizabeth. Each step consists of two chapters. At the end of each chapter you will be rewarded a letter. The letters once put together will spell the name of the Queen’s dog.

At the end of the workshop you will have...

One Created a character, setting, poem, title and start of your own amazing story. You can keep writing your story in your own time after the workshop.

Two The letters reveal the name of the Queen’s dog. You can design a poster in your own time after the workshop. Why not send a photo of your final poster in to National Centre for Writing?

As you follow the steps keep the following things in mind -

• Each chapter can be completed at your own pace. The suggested time for each chapter is 10 minutes. But you can take as long as you like.
• Some of the chapters are split with an optional exercise recommended for ages 8-9.
• You can take breaks in between each chapter.
• Everyone is a storyteller. Write with your own unique voice.
• Relax and have fun!