STORIES FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN
Hastings Storytelling Festival 2026 will be back on Saturday 17th October until Sunday 25th October. We look forward to seeing you there!
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2026
Axel Scheffler
A short 2026 festival overview
Hastings Storytelling Festival returns from 17 to 25 October 2026 with the theme Fishing for Stories. We're shaping this year's programme in partnership with artists, venues and community groups, and we'll share full details subject to funding.
While the wider programme is still in development, we're delighted to announce our first confirmed event. As Patron of the festival, Axel Scheffler will return to Hastings with a brand new family event celebrating The Gruffalo and the upcoming new title Gruffalo Granny.
Patron of Hastings Storytelling Festival, Axel Scheffler returns to the White Rock Theatre with a special family event celebrating the world of The Gruffalo. Axel will read The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo's Child and the brand‑new Gruffalo Granny, published in 2026.
This warm and joyful session features live illustration, gentle humour and behind‑the‑scenes insights into Axel's creative process. Children and families will see the characters come to life on stage as Axel draws them in real time, offering a rare chance to watch one of the world's most celebrated illustrators at work.
The event concludes with a book signing, with titles available to purchase. Axel will be signing books purchased on the day. To help keep the queue moving and make sure everyone has a chance to meet him, he can sign one previously owned book per person. We kindly ask visitors not to bring large numbers of older copies for signing.
A perfect afternoon for families and Gruffalo fans of all ages. Families with babies and toddlers are very welcome. If little ones become unsettled or need a break, a quiet space will be available just outside the auditorium so they can stretch their legs without missing out.
Time: 2pm – doors open at 1:30pm Address: White Rock Theatre Hastings TN34 1JX
ADULT aged 17+: £15 (+ £4.45 booking fee)
- comes with one free child ticket for children aged 0-10, on request
CHILDREN aged 11-16: £6 (+ £3.30 booking fee)