Emagine Entertainment is rolling out the red carpet to Michigan schools.
A new storytelling and literacy program being launched by Emagine Entertainment and Folktellers Studio will turn young readers into filmmakers through a partnership with regional literacy programs that blends reading, imagination and movie magic, inspiring kids to see their stories come alive on the big screen.
This opportunity is open to all elementary and middle school students, educators, schools and community organizations across the state.
“At Emagine, we believe that learning and entertainment go hand in hand, both have the power to inspire, educate, and unite communities,” said Paul Glantz, chairman and CEO of Emagine Entertainment, in a news release. “This program embodies our commitment to community stewardship by giving young people a creative platform to learn, dream, and share their voices through the magic of cinema. We’re proud to help nurture the next generation of readers and storytellers.”
Working with regional literacy programs, Folktellers Studios and Emagine will distribute program kits and connect with classrooms and community groups across the region to make the program accessible to as many young storytellers as possible.
Program registration begins Nov. 3 on the Folktellers Studio website.
Those who register will receive a Folktellers for Literacy Program kit that integrates seamlessly into school enrichment programs or community-based learning initiatives. Each program kit has quantities for 30 students to participate together and includes everything needed to bring their story to life.
Students begin their project by diving into Josef Bastian’s award-winning seven-book series, “Excerpts from an Unknown Guidebook,” a universe filled with adventure, mystery, and the limitless power of storytelling. After reading the books, participants will create their own three-minute movie trailers inspired by the series’ characters, worlds, and themes. Through a collaborative, team approach, students don’t just develop creative and technical skills but also form meaningful connections, by supporting one another throughout the project.
They will also celebrate their work through a film contest.
Program participants will post their short films on the Folktellers for Literacy website, where celebrity judges and the community at large can vote for their favorite film. To enhance the experience Emagine Entertainment has partnered with the program to cultivate a grand finale opportunity for students to showcase these stories in a true state-of-the-art cinematic presentation.
Selected finalists will attend an exclusive red-carpet premiere event at Emagine Theatres. There, their short films will be showcased on the big screen, giving kids, families, teachers, and the community a chance to celebrate storytelling in true Hollywood style.
“We are so excited to launch this program with Emagine, as it represents the storytelling bridge between reading, literacy, and entertainment,” said Josef Bastian. “This will be an experience that brings the entire community together to celebrate the joy of reading and making movies.”
Executive Producer Stephen Sadler points out stories have the power to heal and connect us.
“When kids read and create, they discover their voice and build confidence, and that’s where literacy and mental well-being truly come together,” said Sadler. “Every story they tell helps them grow, imagine, and feel seen.”
This project is about more than reading a book — it’s about inspiring creativity, collaboration, and confidence, and proving that great stories can come from anyone, anywhere.
Educators and organizations interested in participating can enroll and order their kits online at www.FolkTellersForLiteracy.com. Kits will arrive in early February, allowing them to run the program through April, when celebrity judging will begin, culminating in the red-carpet event in June 2026 at an Emagine Theatre in Michigan. Each kit, with quantities for 30 participants, costs $500. However, there will be scholarship kits available for educator and organization programs that may require financial assistance.
Folktellers for Literacy Programs Kits will be available starting on Nov. 3, while supplies last.
For more information about the Folktellers for Literacy Program, visit folktellersforliteracy.com.
