Join Darcey Bussell’s online classroom

Darcey Bussell
Darcey Bussell at Ballet Studio Live © ROH/Rachel Cherry

The Royal Opera House has launched a new virtual classroom and programme of free home-learning opportunities for children and young people.

Former Royal Ballet Principal and Strictly judge Darcey Bussell said: “Join me and my family over the next 13 weeks as we go behind the scenes of one of the world’s most loved theatres to learn and experience every aspect of theatre-craft and performance in bite-sized chunks for all the family to enjoy.”

With no prior knowledge of ballet or opera required, the ROH’s Create & Learn series gives children a sneak peek behind the scenes of one of the world’s most famous theatres, inviting them to design and make their own sets, create and perform their own dances, learn about music and warm up their vocal chords.

Anyone can get involved between now and 17 July, with new activities and courses added every week at 12pm on Friday.

Making a cardboard theatreThe first instalment of Create & Learn includes six creative challenges with activities including creating your own special opening night invitation inspired by Cinderella; falling down the rabbit hole and constructing a short dance based on Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland; learning about opera and the voice with songs from Hansel and Gretel and making your very own ballet or opera stage set using just a cereal box.

The next batch of home learning opportunities on Friday 24 April will be on the theme of “Magical Adventures”.

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