Bringing Stories to the Platform: Creating Illustrated Children’s Newspapers for Local Train Stations
Recently, I had the pleasure of working alongside a theatre company – wiseowltheatre.com on a project that combined steam engines and theatre — creating old-style illustrated children’s newspapers designed to be given out to families across several train stations.
The aim was simple but special: to spark curiosity, imagination, and a sense of wonder in young travellers and their families while they waited for the train and enjoyed the theatrical ride.
Inspired by Traditional Children’s Newspapers
The newspapers were inspired by classic illustrated children’s publications, with a nostalgic feel that nodded to a time when stories were discovered slowly—through drawings, puzzles, and playful headlines.
Each newspaper featured:
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Hand-drawn illustrations
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Short stories and whimsical snippets
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Visual details children could explore while waiting
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A layout that felt timeless rather than modern or digital
The style was intentionally gentle and illustrative, encouraging children to pause, look closely, and engage with the artwork rather than rush past it.
A Creative Collaboration with Theatre
Working alongside a theatre company brought a strong storytelling focus to the project. Their experience in narrative, character, and atmosphere helped shape the tone of the newspapers, ensuring they felt theatrical, immersive, and full of personality.
Together, we explored how stories could live outside traditional spaces, transforming everyday environments—like platforms and carriages—into places where imagination could take centre stage.
Trains Stations where they appeared:
London Station
