A new family theatre show kicked off its tour of Nottinghamshire libraries this weekend with four sell-out shows.

Based on the award-winning novel by Kiran Millwood Hargrave and commissioned specifically for library spaces, The Girl of Ink and Stars has been created by The Spark Arts for Children in association with Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries with funding from Arts Council England.

The soundscape to the show, created by composer Craig Vear, is played through individual headsets, immersing the audience in the production.

With crashing waves and waterfalls, twinkling crystal caves and the snarling of fire demons, children and adults alike were twisting in their seats as the 360° sound experience absorbed them in the story of the mythical island of Joya and the quest into the Forgotten Territories to uncover the truth behind an ancient myth.

One audience member in Mansfield said: “The performance was amazing, such beautiful storytelling and although it was recommended for children, I thoroughly enjoyed it too. The sound effects were very realistic and really made you feel like you were actually there with them!”

Aimed at children aged 7+ and their families, The Girl of Ink and Stars will tour a further 15 Inspire Libraries across Nottinghamshire until 11 August. It will then go on to tour the East Midlands visiting a total of 47 libraries across the region.

Limited tickets available at remaining Inspire Library performances, tickets £3 each for library members (£6 each for non-members). Full details at inspireculture.org.uk/inkandstars

Inspire is a charitable community benefit society who deliver culture, learning and libraries on behalf of Nottinghamshire County Council. For more information visit www.inspireculture.org.uk

Inspire Library membership is free, and you can sign up at your local Nottinghamshire County library or online at www.inspireculture.org.uk/join