I didn’t wake until 10!! What??? The dreams that I had in the wee hours of morning were, again, of brother, but they were earlier dreams, back three months in the weeks at hospital, so less traumatic than recent dreams. That’s good, isn’t it? I poured out of bed and clicked my heels together! I had slept!! WHOOP! Whoop! But, QUICK! QUICK! This was the day that Gramma and Steven and Steven’s Mommy and Daddy were heading for the Seton Public Library, eager to enjoy the program, “Reading With Royalty”! The program would begin at eleven and there was still Max to get out and coffee to be had!
Program Description:
Reading With Royalty
Celebrate inclusion and diversity with our new glamorous family-friendly storytime program, led by local drag queen and king performers. Supported by ATB Financial.
Audience: All Ages – Ages up to 5
Gramma was picked up on a morning that felt oppressive, wet, chilly and grey! But how to turn a frown upside down? I was so happy to see my family and especially pleased to be sitting in the back seat with Steven who was nestled under his fuzzy blanket and constantly taking in his world through the windows, through the mirror and through the eyes of his Gramma. Together, we were about to be captivated by the magic of Seton.
Upon entry, the first piece of wonder was found in the huge YMCA swimming pool. What an amazing facility. Steven was in awe!
Gramma was captivated by the sculptural elements and a sense of flight throughout the facility! While I didn’t capture very strong images because of the back light and my lack of knowledge about the camera, I recommend to my readers that they take their own field trip to the venue and enjoy. Bird lovers, be surprised and fall in love with the themes. Christopher Collins was the talented sculptor who created the birds. I hope you will enjoy his imagery as they are so much more specific.
As we entered the Seton Public Library, we took in the aesthetic and the excitement first, but quickly discovered the helicopter! The helicoptor carried on with the theme of flight, as did the suspended pinwheels. What a glorious space and what a magical investigation for children who find these amazing flying machines in stories that they read!
It wasn’t long and we began to gather for the special event, “Reading With Royalty”. There was excitement in the air! The Seton Public Library offers graduated seating in amphitheater style for gatherings such as this one.
Not new to the Calgary Public Library children’s programming and Rhyme Time, our family nestled into a spot sandwiched between other grandmothers and their grandchildren and people who never miss Rhyme Time with their children. Some were talking about the Fish Creek location…others, the Quarry Park location. If you haven’t attended one of these programs, this Grandmother highly recommends!
Today the MC was Tara and she did an amazing job! My daughter and I were both moved by the land acknowledgement that was done, in such a way that children might understand. We were prompted by verse to touch the land…as the acknowledgement was given and it was very special. Tara then balanced the program of stories read by local Drag Performers and verses that were sung and acted out by the children. This way the children were better able to pay attention to the two stories that were presented enthusiastically by L J Nailz and Oiliver Twirl.
Oliver Twirl: drag performer and enthusiastic reader of the book, The Princess and the Pony
The Princess and the Pony by Kate Beaton is a story that naturally breaks down assumptions. It explores that sometimes warriors just need cozy sweaters. There were laughs that came up throughout the reading of this book, especially with the use of the word, ‘fart’. What is toughness, anyway? What does it mean to be a warrior?
Tara, MC on behalf of the Seton Public Library
L J Nailz reads Quit Calling Me Monster
Quit Calling Me a Monster by Jory John and illustrated by Bob Shea supports children in their identities and their unique personalities. It presses up against the act of labeling or naming. It encourages ‘excellent manners’.
Steven is blessed to have this woman as his Mommy.
During the conclusion of the program, the performers were asked about their favourite music and what things they enjoy doing. Oliver Twirl shared the fun of playing around with both masculine and feminine clothing. Their favourite music included bubbly theater pieces and punk rock.
To end, three large Dress Up trunks were brought out and children spent the next part of the morning playing dress up and pretending. It was a great deal of fun although Steven, at his age, was just eager to do the stairs and to make his way back to the front seat of that helicopter!
Steven is blessed to have this guy as his Dad!
I am always impressed by the variety and the quality of programs offered by our Calgary Public Libraries. It is with gratitude that we left today’s experience at Seton, feeling a part of a wonderful and diverse community here in Calgary. Thank you so much to those who organized the program, booked the story book readers, pulled together the resources and covered these topics with finesse. A very wonderful experience was had at Reading With Royalty!
Now, Gramma needs a nap!
Sounds like a fun and interesting day. Havent been to Seton but went to Quarry park shortly after it opened. But for me fish creek is my choice, close and it feels like home. Glad you got some sleep. You probably need a few more sleep ins.