We have two programmes that we are currently bringing into schools and educational facilities.Both bringing live opera directly into the classroom and help young people to get excited about and identify with classical music in a way they never imagined they would...

'MAKE AN OPERA IN A DAY' (Creative workshop, with performance)
This one day workshop is tailor made for 80 to 100 (maximum) children who are totally involved from 9.00am (registration) to 3pm. Four professional singers, who have all sung the lead roles in Carmen for major opera companies lead the workshop with the help of existing staff in the school (or group of schools).

Currently presenting the opera 'Carmen' by Bizet, this workshop begins with warm-up exercises including vocal exercises, movement and stagecraft disciplines. The children are divided into smaller groups and become characters in the opera: gypsy dancers, soldiers, urchins, factory workers. Those chosen to be dancers learn to dance to the habanera, the factory girls learn dialogue and how to stage a fight, the soldiers learn dialogue and are drilled to the music. The children are able to present and enact their scenes by the end of the morning, so the opera is then 'put together' before the lunch break. After lunch each child has a costume to wear.

The opera is presented in the 'round' to represent the bull ring, with each group of children being both participants and audience. When the opera begins, the children do not know the full story of the opera, let alone the tragic ending. They are spellbound by the experience and performance by the professional opera singers whom they perform with, and often very moved by the emotive power of the singing and music. They are excited about being part of a 'real live performance', are inspired and encouraged about the very vital part they have played. It is traditional that the children can invite their parents to the performance in the afternoon.

This programme requires the co-operation of staff (for the security and discipline of the children). A working space with a piano or keyboard for the performance and morning exercises, and three other separate spaces for the divided practice space.

'1 HOUR PROGRAMME FOR SCHOOLS'
A one hour educational programme with audience participation which introduces children to the exciting world of Opera. This programme has been successfully presented to Infant, Junior, Intermediate and Senior schools.

Each voice type is represented by the four singers, and each operatic extract carefully chosen to engage the imagination and interest of children of all ages. During the programme we will demonstrate the power and creativity of the human voice, and engage the audience into the drama and characters involved in each operatic extract with entertaining introductions. Simple props and costume changes enhance the visual effect. The cast of Opera's Cool are always delighted to stay and answer any questions from the children/audience at the end of the show.

For more information on the programme please contact us and we're happy to talk to you about bringing this amazing experience to your children!