A DANCE production influenced by the works of children’s author Roald Dahl will be taken to schools throughout the North-East to inspire more children to read.

Whizzpopping Stories has been created by University of Sunderland students bringing to life his work through colourful costumes, sets, and dance styles.

The Dance University of Sunderland Company (Dusc) will next week begin a tour of the region’s primary schools.

Dusc spokesman Clara Leask said: “The aim is to get children excited about reading again.

“These days so many children have tablets and games and no one reads any more.

“We dance students are all passionate about Roald Dahl, having grown up listening to and reading his stories and seeing films such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

Rachel Emms-Hobbins, senior lecturer in performance arts, who helped the students create and choreograph the dance said: “There are no dull moments in Roald Dahl’s books – there’s always lots going on, funny bits, tricks and surprises.

“Schools will enjoy something very similar in Whizzpopping Stories - 50 minutes of vibrant dance performance using spoken word, costume, props, music, recorded narration and books.

“It is an interactive experience, the chance to learn a little more about Roald Dahl and also see some characters they know come to life.”

The production includes characters from The Twits, George’s Marvellous Medicine and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

It is assessed as part of the student’s academic module at the university.

Any schools interested in the Dusc dance tour can find out more information by emailing rachel.emms-hobbins@sunderland.ac.uk.