World Opera Day: Excelsior pupils take to the stage and experience opera

“The question for schools is no longer simply what enrichment we offer, but what difference it makes.”

This World Opera Day, we're celebrating the different ways pupils at Excelsior Academy have been able to experience opera through our partnership with English Touring Opera (ETO).

Primary-aged pupils took part in Ada and the Code Crusaders, an interactive production combining music, storytelling and audience participation. They learned songs and joined in with the performance, enjoying an introduction to opera that brought the story to life.

For secondary students, the experience continued beyond the classroom, with a visit to Durham's Gala Theatre to watch a performance of Pagliacci. Seeing professional performers and musicians on stage gave students the chance to experience opera in a live theatre setting and discover more about the art form.

Both opportunities were made possible through funding from the Laidlaw Foundation, which enabled pupils across LST Academies to experience opera last academic year.

Excelsior has also recently been awarded Platinum Artsmark status, recognising its commitment to providing pupils with opportunities to engage with the arts and culture.

Whether taking part in a performance or watching professionals bring a production to life, these experiences can introduce young people to something new and help them see the opportunities that exist beyond their everyday experiences.