Performer Sheran Goodspeed Keyton’s storybook character Mrs. Dipsworth is making her way online this weekend for interactive storytime. 

“Mrs. Dipsworth Storytime…At Home” will stream live on YouTube to teach young kids the value of being a good person. She’ll read Janet Forney’s “Authentically You,” a story about strengths, good character and motivations.

“It’s really getting back to wanting kids to become interested in reading books again and being able to comprehend what they’re reading and writing,” said Goodspeed Keyton, founder of DVA Productions. 

The English-accented character was born more than a decade ago, touring North Texas libraries and schools. She also dances and sings. Think Mrs. Doubtfire meets the fairy godmother from Cinderella, Goodspeed Keyton said.

“She’s very magical and very no-nonsense.” 

The pandemic has kept Goodspeed Keyton away from her usual spots. Online streaming from her home is now her main source of contact with families and kids.

“Ever since the pandemic started, I’ve completely converted my kitchen into a recording studio,” she said.

Mrs. Dipsworth’s goal is to teach children moral lessons utilizing storytime while reinforcing reading comprehension skills needed for standardized testing. Goodspeed Keyton is also the manager of education and community engagement at the Fort Worth Opera.

The storytime will be free and live on Youtube at 10 a.m. More storytimes coming on March 6 and April 3. 

Got a tip? Email Mia Estrada at mestrada@kera.org. You can follow her on Twitter @miaaestrada.

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