An unforgettable first theatre visit for 60 children from Dallimore Primary School

For many children, visiting the theatre is something they assume happens to other people.

Thanks to the support of theatre works!, 60 pupils from Dallimore Primary and Nursery School, Derbyshire, travelled to the Theatre Royal Nottingham to experience Horrible Histories: Awful Egyptians , and for 90% of them, it was their very first live theatre experience.

As the children walked into the theatre, teaching staff described ‘the wonder on the children's faces’ as they took in the auditorium for the first time. During the performance, every child laughed, gasped and ducked as the show's 3D effects came to life.

Back at school, the experience continued and a teacher shared ‘A group of boys who would usually be "too cool" to join in school activities recreated their favourite scene from the show,’ and went on to notice a genuine sense of camaraderie developing across the class after sharing such a memorable experience.

For some children, the impact went even deeper, ‘one pupil with profound autism, who would normally struggle to remain seated for more than a few minutes, stayed completely focused throughout the entire performance, even remaining in his seat during the interval because he didn't want to miss anything.’ Moments like these remind us that theatre can create spaces where every child can connect, engage and thrive.

The children's own words say it best.

‘I felt excited because I have never been to a theatre before.’

‘I'm really thankful that you've helped us to have an unforgettable day at the theatre.’

‘Yes this visit did inspire me because I would like to perform on stage.’

Another pupil left already thinking about the future:

‘I might take GCSE Drama.’

Teachers saw educational benefits too, describing the visit as ‘a fantastic opportunity’ for children who may never otherwise experience live theatre, while one parent shared that their daughter ‘couldn't wait to tell me all about it’ and is already asking to visit the theatre again.

The experience also reinforced classroom learning, with the school rating the production’s curriculum impact 5 out of 5, demonstrating how live theatre can inspire learning long after the experience is over.

Every donation to theatre works! helps remove financial barriers so that more children can discover the excitement and ambition that comes from experiencing live theatre for the very first time.

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