Always on
This project successfully funded on 28th February 2026, you can still support them with a donation.
Heads & Tails
Torpoint, Cornwall, United Kingdom
Aim
Heads & Tails connects reading with storytelling, using African animal tales to explore nature, respect, kindness, and care for our world
'Heads & Tails' is a project created by performance storytellers Andy Copps and John Kirk, inspired by the rich folklore of Southern African people, particularly the KhoiSan, whose stories were used to make sense of the world around them.
Tales filled with indigenous animals and the kind of moral insight you might recognise from classic fables.
The story begins with one of the most powerful symbols of the Savannah, the Baobab Tree, and weaves together traditional tales of the land. As the Baobab comes into being, the animals emerge into a new world and are each given a tail.
Of course, that’s a playful double meaning, because what follows is a sequence of individual tales, including, 'How the Giraffe earned its long neck and legs', and 'Why the Lion would rather not eat the fruit of the Baobab Tree'.
By re-exploring and re-imagining these stories, Heads & Tails has been created as a piece of storytelling designed to entertain families while honouring the wisdom and imagination of an ancient tradition.
John and Andy need your help to take this story one step further.
They want to turn the script into a book, and that’s why they have launched this Crowdfunder.
Your support will help bring 'Heads & Tails' to life in print, with illustrations, design, editing, and production, thereby ensuring these stories continue to be shared beyond the stage.
By backing this project, you’re not just helping create a book.
You’re helping keep storytelling alive.
Thank you for being part of the journey.
How the Funds Will Be Used
The funds raised through this Crowdfunder, will enable us to:
- Professionally print and self-publish 'Heads & Tails'.
- Ensure high-quality production that does justice to both the stories and illustrations.
- Make the book accessible for schools, libraries, families and carers, and storytelling spaces.
- Provide supplemental learning aids for teachers, parents and carers.
More about the Creators of 'Heads & Tails'
About Andy Copps (andycopps.com)
Andy Copps is a professional storyteller who works with people of all ages in schools, charities, community groups, and commercial organisations. Through storytelling, performance, and workshops, he encourages creativity, imaginative thinking, and confidence, helping people find authentic ways to share ideas and connect with others.
Alongside performing, Andy is passionate about facilitating workshops that inspire people to imagine, create, and tell their own stories. He has extensive experience working with neurodivergent children and adults, including those with additional physical, emotional, and educational needs.
About John Kirk (john-kirk.co.uk)
John Kirk is an international storyteller, teacher, and workshop leader with a deep love of folk tales. His work includes retelling stories by Michael Morpurgo, Roald Dahl, and Terry Deary, and he has performed across the UK, Europe and South America..
John has appeared at events including the Barnes Children’s Literature Festival, Guernsey Literary Festival, and Sharjah Reading Festival. His storytelling is playful, thoughtful, and rooted in a strong connection to traditional tales.
John is delighted to be collaborating with Andy Copps on Heads & Tails and hopes the stories will be enjoyed, shared, and passed on to others.
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made