Carbon Theatre is set to transform local libraries across Wigan Borough into immersive storytelling dens as part of a major new project designed to spark children’s imaginations through sound, creativity and climate-focused storytelling.
Following the success of Cub, which reached more than 4,000 young people and their families across the East Midlands and North West, the company is launching The Story Den Project, a new audio adventure experience for children aged 7 to 12.
The project will feature two new audio adventures, co-created with young people and experienced inside specially designed listening dens in local libraries. Through imaginative storytelling and hands-on exploration, children will be invited to step into new worlds, connect with nature and explore the future of the planet through sound.
At the heart of the project is the concept of “Thrutopias”, stories that move beyond dystopian despair and idealised utopias to explore realistic pathways towards a better future. Working alongside children aged 7 to 11 from across Wigan Borough, Carbon Theatre will co-create stories examining the natural world and the climate crisis.
The Story Den Project is expected to reach more than 5,000 children through a programme of family sessions, creative workshops and a 12-week library tour running throughout summer and autumn 2027. Designer Bethany Wells has been commissioned to create three bespoke pop-up structures alongside stories created by Cat Stobbs and Oliver Bishop.
Accessibility is a central focus of the project, with resources including British Sign Language versions of the stories and sensory props within the listening dens to support a wide range of access needs.
Zha Olu, Head of Arts at Wigan Youth Zone, comments: “Wigan Youth Zone is delighted to be collaborating with Carbon Theatre on this exciting new project. This partnership will give our junior members the opportunity to explore their creativity, create meaningful stories, and see their work shared across the borough.”
Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods at Wigan Council, comments: “The Story Den Project is fantastic for Wigan Borough Libraries to be involved with, and a wonderful opportunity for our young people.
“By supporting Carbon Theatre, we can help build creativity, confidence and storytelling skills for our young people, while giving them a platform to express themselves in new and engaging ways. We look forward to seeing the inspiring stories that emerge from this partnership and celebrating the creativity of everyone involved.”
The project will tour Wigan Libraries from 31 May to 16 July and from 6 September to 8 October 2027.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
