‘A King’s Ransom’ workshop
Yesterday afternoon we had a visit from the artistic team responsible for producing ‘A King’s Ransom’, an opera written specifically for KS2 aged children and set in Sherwood Forest, home to the legendary Robin Hood. The opera is being performed next week in Norwich and we are lucky enough to have been selected to take part as an ‘Audience School’.
During the workshop yesterday, after some fun warm-up activities, Genevieve, the Artistic Director told us a little about the story whilst Gethin, a professional opera singer involved with the project, sang some of the songs during the storytelling. We were all spellbound by Gethin’s beautiful rich voice, accompanied by the amazing Musical Director, Tom, on the piano!
After this synopsis we worked in groups to produce our own short operas. The children had to think of a scenario, decide how it could be dramatised and then present their ideas to Tom, who conjured up some dramatic music to accompany the drama. Each group performed their short piece to the other group, who were encouraged to guess the storyline. The whole activity was engaging and great fun.
Finally we listened as Gethin and Tom taught us the song that we will be singing in Norwich next week. The children listened carefully and sang well, learning the song in under ten minutes. Gethin was really impressed with the children’s ability to learn the tune so quickly and, as they were leaving, all three professionals complimented the children on their overall participation and musicality.
I have posted pictures from yesterday’s workshop below, and will publish a further report when we have performed in Norwich next week. Well done everyone!
Mrs Strudwick
