POETRY WILL be child’s play at StAnza 2005—the annual St Andrews poetry festival—combining the best of fun, games and entertainment.

Next month’s programme comprises the biggest and most varied schedule ever for children, and almost all the events are free.

Seven events will be spread over the three days from March 17 to 20.

Two of the country’s leading talents, Roger McGough and Michael Morpurgo, will delight audiences with a joint reading on March 20.

Award-winning Liverpool poet McGough has been entertaining and inspiring since the 60s. His most recent books for children are All the Best and The Bee’s Knees

Morpurgo is the United Kingdom’s children’s laureate and has written over 100 books, including the much-acclaimed novels Private Peaceful and War Horse.

Zany and magical musician John Sampson will be supporting the poets with a medley of instruments and his own special blend of music and comedy.

Michael Morpurgo will also appear at StAnza’s first ever children’s book launch, in partnership with the recently-opened Ottakar’s bookshop, on March 19.

He and co-editor Jane Feaver will be reading from Cock Crow, their latest anthology of poetry for children and a follow-up to the popular Because A Fire Was In My Head.

Three workshops for young people, combining poetry and creative fun, are also scheduled.

Children’s poet Kenneth Steven leads off on March 18 with The Magic Of Creativity, a chance for participants to conjure poetic descriptions of the natural world. The following day, StAnza’s poet-in-residence Tom Pow will take children on an adventure into the Land of Poetry with his favourite maps as guides.

Later that day, and back by popular demand, Rachel Hazell will present her distinctive brand of magic and imagination, turning books into hats—or is it hats into books?

Rounding off the weekend’s events for children is a fun-filled kids’ poetry party hosted by Diana Hendry, of Harvey Angell fame, Tom Pow and games maestro Larry Butler.

Musician John Sampson will join them in a programme of wacky party games, silly tunes, readings and recitations.

Although most of the events are free, participants will need tickets and they are available from the StAnza box office at the Byre Theatre (tel 01334 475000). Programmes are also available at the Byre or post free (01592 414714).