Theatres, opera, ballet
What is it?     What you need     Getting started     Find out more

 

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What is it?

  • Many people go to the theatre just occasionally to see a play or and opera or a ballet, often as part of a special evening out.  

  • But for others, this type of performance is a more serious interest;  they go on a more or less regular basis and they follow closely the nature of the pieces performed, the productions and the performers.  

  • Such interest may be linked to their own interest in performing in these areas (see acting and drama, dancing, singing), but it is not necessary to be a performer to enjoy going to see plays, opera or the ballet.   

  • There is a wide range of shows to see, both in terms of subject matter, scale of production and quality of performance.  All may be equally enjoyable, from the big West End musical, to the local amateur drama performance in the village hall.

Find out more

Organisations

Theatregoer's Club of Great Britain  www.theatregoers.co.uk/  0207 450 4040
Operadata - the online opera database  www.operabase.com/en/
Purves World of Puppets  www.purvespuppets.com

 

Magazines

Theatre Record 

Opera 

Getting started

  • Find a local group or club which covers the type of performances that interests you (see organisations above).

  • Take a class or course at your local adult education centre or see if your local theatre has introductory events.

  • Consult books or magazines on different types of theatre, opera and ballet.

  • Check in your local library/paper, theatre or education centre for more information.

What you need

Skills and people
  • Anyone can go to theatre, opera or ballet, though not all shows are suitable for younger children and some venues may require children to be accompanies by an adult. 

  • It is easy to go to the theatre and other performances on your own, but many people like to go in an informal group of family or friends.  

  • More serious theatre goers often join a group of like minded enthusiasts for organised trips to different types of shows and performances, especially when transport is required to go into the major cities and towns.

Equipment or clothing
  • There is no special equipment or clothing needed for visits to the theatre.  

  • These days, even dress for the opera and ballet in places like Covent Garden in London is generally informal, unless these is a special gala or fund raising performance.

A place or facilities
  • Performances of plays, opera and ballet take place all over the country, in venues ranging from local school halls to major London theatres.  

  • Many professional companies now tour the bigger regional centres, and there are also good regional repertory companies, particular for theatre and drama.

Have a go - get started now

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