The Sparx! Tour - Anti Arson Show

---

Schools across Shropshire are being urged to watch a "spine tingling" stage production which gets vital anti arson messages over to pupils.

They should book their places now for the 2007 production of Sparx! ? a joint initiative with the fire service, regional arson reduction team and Zip Theatre.

Following the success of the first Sparx! tour in 2005, the latest tour opens first in Shropshire at Concord College theatre, Acton Burnell, near Shrewsbury, from June 4 to 8.

Written by Jon Lingard-Lane and performed by Zip Theatre, Wolverhampton, Sparx! is designed to raise awareness of the dangers and consequences of malicious fire setting and anti-social behaviour.

The six week tour will also see performances in Birmingham, Cannock, Stoke and Walsall. There will be two one-hour performances each day at 10.30am and 1.15pm. Attendance is free but seat numbers are restricted so schools are being urged to book places now by contacting Zip Theatre 01902 572250 between 10am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

The highly popular stage performance is aimed at year 8 pupils but is suitable for Years 6, 7, 9 and 10. As well as key fire safety messages, it deals with bullying, peer pressure and other important issues. Groups will be given a CD of the music and a follow-up pack containing lesson plans for Citizenship, PSHE, English, Dance and Drama.

Andy Perry, District Manager, of Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "This is a very successful way of raising awareness of life risk issues. It presents important subjects such as peer pressure and bullying and explains the true life changing consequences of arson."

"Half of known arsonists are below the age of 18 and many live close to the arson attack. We need to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of arson."

Last year, the Sparx! Tour received acclaim from youngsters including over 2,200 students in Shropshire who attended the productions.

A staff member at the John Randall Primary School, Madeley, Telford, said after last year?s performance: "Fabulous. The class was very, very quiet on the journey home which was rather unusual."

A year 8 pupil at another school said: "This has put me off playing with matches and fire for life and I wish to spread the concern of this and convince other people not to play with fire either.

"It brought tears in my eyes and tingles down my spine."