On Saturday, November 28th, the Children’s Museum of the East End (CMEE) is welcoming a special Thanksgiving weekend guest for a reading of the “Angelina Ballerina” and “Twinkle” series. Author Katharine Holabird is returning to CMEE to bring her incredibly popular children’s books to life, with the help of an accomplished local performer.
“Angelina Ballerina” is set in Chipping Cheddar, a place similar to London in the 1920s, and follows Angelina, a cartoon mouse who loves ballet. She is illustrated by Helen Craig. The first book was published in 1983, and the series currently includes over twenty books. “Angelina Ballerina” made its TV debut in 2001, when United Kingdom-based HIT Entertainment produced an animated series of 40 fifteen-minute episodes based on the books, which featured actress Finty Williams as the voice of Angelina, and her mother Judi Dench as Miss Lilly. It was also brought to stage by the English National Ballet, and a computer-animated revival, “Angelina Ballerina: The Next Steps,” premiered on PBS stations. “Twinkle” is Holabird’s new series of books, which are illustrated by Sarah Warburton.
Holabird, who visits the Museum often, is delighted to be back at CMEE for the exciting holiday weekend event. “My two little grandsons, Max and Charlie, adore CMEE,” shared the author, who resides in Water Mill. “I’ve met lots of wonderful children in the area, and they inspire me to keep writing.”
“Angelina Ballerina” and “Twinkle” fans can even purchase a copy of their favorite book and have Ms. Holabird sign it. “In addition to family, food, and football,” said Steve Long, “Katharine reading at CMEE has become a local Thanksgiving tradition. We are incredibly honored that she’s joining us again this year!”
The reading begins at 10 a.m., and reservations are required. Admission is free for Museum members and $15 for non-members. Proceeds from the morning will support CMEE.
Children’s Museum of the East End is located at 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike in Bridgehampton. For more information, call 631-537-8250 or visit www.cmee.org.