Youngsters party alternative way

Bob Hartman, well-known Christian author and storytelling performer, enthralled 50 children at a children's praise party in the Fane Hall, Kelvedon Hatch, Brentwood.

The event was promoted as an alternative to Halloween activities and was organised by the children's team at St Paul's church, Bentley Common, Brentwood. The children enjoyed 90 minutes of energetic fun, which emphasised the Christian ethos of being kind and loving one another. 

Jackie Jennings, one of the event organisers, said: “So many of the parents said they were so pleased to be able to offer their children an opportunity to take part in something like this. 

“Bob is a fantastic storyteller and entertainer and the children absolutely loved his animated performing style.

“The party was designed to be fun and all the children went home with a big party bag so they didn't feel they had missed out on Halloween.”

Bob had begun the day with an assembly at Bentley St Paul's School, Brentwood, with more than 200 children.

His storytelling style was well received and his greatest gift of audience participation was superb. The children found him hysterical.

He enthralled the children with his story and kept their attention.

Finally, Bob held an evening workshop attended by 70 adults.

He spoke about getting to the place of play and how important it is to get down to a child's level. Bob also spoke about using storytelling in an imaginative and interactive way. There was lots of audience participation. The feedback after the session was “when will you organise something like this again?”

Revd Rob Rose, rector of St Paul’s, said, “We had an absolutely brilliant day.

“Bob has been so well received by all the children and adults that have heard him.

“Bob says that the greatest gift we have today is to share the story of the Bible, the best way that we can. He was certainly able to do just that”.

More information on Bob Hartman can be found on www.lionhudson.com.

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