Opera North launches two summer camps in drama, art and music for children in Leeds

The Creative Arts Camp will engage children with music, drama and art while a Summer Strings Academy will help develop young string players in the region.

From August 17 to 21, the Creative Arts Camp will take place at Herd Farm Activity Centre in the north of the city. Open to all eight to 11-year-olds with a passion for creativity, the week-long event will enable young people to explore the many fascinating elements that make up the world of theatre. Devised by professional artists who have taken Humperdinck’s opera Hansel and Gretel as their starting point, the fun and engaging sessions will be led by tutors from Opera North’s award-winning In Harmony programme and will cover directing, acting, set and costume design, script-writing, composition, choreography and dance. The participants will also get to watch a special Whistle Stop Opera version of Hansel and Gretel.

The Summer Strings Academy will run from August 24 to 27 at Leeds Town Hall. Designed especially for young musicians who already play a string instrument at Grade 4 or above, the immersive event will provide a valuable insight into rehearsing and performing as part of a professional ensemble. The young players will be tutored by, and play alongside, members of the Orchestra of Opera North.

Jacqui Cameron, Opera North Education Director, said: “Our Education team and orchestra are really looking forward to working face-to-face with young people again and igniting their imaginations through all the activities we have planned.”

Both camps will adhere to government guidelines. Visit operanorth.co.uk/participate.