Open House is a free opportunity for Hampshire students to experience world class opera and jazz in our magnificent theatre!

Open House aims to give a new audience the opportunity to see our season’s full-scale productions. Our insightful introductions led by outstanding facilitators will explain operatic story lines, musical themes, details and designs.

Our new audience will be introduced to members of our creative teams, cast, orchestral members and back stage technicians to give them a full understanding of the rehearsal process and technical complexities.

For many, this will be the first time they have visited a professional theatre. We hope that the experience of hearing an opera singer, sounds of full orchestra and the sights of a staged production will open their eyes, broaden their horizons and encourage them to want more!

"We enjoyed the workshop and having Rob & Lyndsey in to work with us for the afternoon. It was really fun to learn about warm-ups and singing in a group.
 Hearing songs in a different language was unusual but I am glad I had the opportunity to go and see it. It is something that I would never have usually done." - J Webster, Year 9

This year, our 5 day workshops were available to children across schools in Hampshire in Years 6 – 9.

Rob Gildon and Lyndsey Docherty delivered vibrant and interactive workshops exploring Puccini’s music and the story of Tosca.

The children also learned the chorus from Te Deum, which they all sang together with the Principle during the performance at The Grange theatre.

In the school session they learned how a professional production comes together, gained an insight into the workings of an opera house and then post-performance met the Company, including Principles, Conductor and Stage Manager and asked questions relating to their careers.

Teacher feedback:

"We had a wonderful time and the children really enjoyed themselves. The session in the theatre was really interactive and gave children a flavour of opera without being overwhelming."

Ms Easton, Halterworth School

"It was a lovely day today and lots of Halterworth children were singing the chorus we had practised on the bus home."

Mr Young, Halterworth School

Student feedback

"It was amazing how they could tell the story whilst singing a different language. I was so impressed by how much they needed to remember." – Freddy.

"I enjoyed the show and I was really proud of the opera singers singing voices, it has made me want to keep singing too.’ Clemmie

‘It was so incredible how they created the backdrop, it looked like we were actually in the place.’ Apryl

" I really liked the play and emotions"  Theo

"I love the fact we got to sing!" Rosie

"We wanted the actors to carry on singing it was so good!"  Izzy

"It was the perfect sound and I can't believe they didn't even need microphones"  Indy

"I like the set as it was really realistic"  Lizzie