English National Opera is offering parents of young children the chance to enjoy an afternoon at the opera free of childcare worries thanks to a new crèche scheme.
Opera Tots, for children aged six months to four years, and Opera Stars, suitable for seven to 12-year-olds, combine childcare with musical activities designed to entertain children while their parents enjoy a matinee performance of their chosen show at the London Coliseum.
Music facilitators and members of ENO’s education arm join fully qualified crèche workers to lead the sessions, which are tailored to each age group. Opera Tots includes a range of music activities to assist play and development, while Opera Stars comprises fun learning activities to introduce children to opera, including music, singing drama and art.
The sessions are held in conjunction with matinee performances of forthcoming ENO productions, including, this autumn, The Makropulos Case, Radamisto, Faust, La Boheme and Don Giovanni.
The scheme has been designed by ENO Baylis, the company’s education arm, as part of its mission to break down the barriers – such as childcare – that prevent people from experiencing opera.
Opera Tots and Opera Stars cost £10 per child and can only be booked by adults holding tickets to participating performances. For more information and to book, call 0871 472 0800 or visit the ENO website.
CB