The Mantis Muse: Stories and crafts
Join us for a special a tale about a music-loving praying mantis from the book Manuelo the Playing Mantis by Don Freeman. You’ll then create your very own colourful mantis mask inspired by Manuelo.
About the book
One warm summer evening, a lonely praying mantis named Manuelo listens to the music of an outdoor concert. Manuelo wishes that he, too, could make music like the crickets and the katydids. But the instruments he makes don’t play. Then Manuelo meets someone who shows him how to fashion a cello using a walnut shell, a stick, and a special ingredient. Manuelo makes his first true friend and, together, they create the music they both love.
The Mantis Muse
The 3m-tall sculpture, The Mantis Muse by celebrated artist David Shrigley, has taken residency in our Conservatory this Easter holiday. The artwork highlights the essential role that art plays in education.
Visitor information
- All children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the event.
- Please arrive at the Conservatory five minutes before the workshop begins.
- Parents and carers will need to assist children while they take part in the craft element of the workshop.