Leicester’s Curve theatre is supporting home schooling during the third national lockdown with an educational initiative called Curve Classroom.
Available on Curve’s web site and YouTube channel, the free sessions will be available every weekday from 4PM and will be delivered by a range of artists including performers Molly Lynch, Garry Robson, Cathy Tyson and Hareet Deol, designers Grace Smart and Kate Unwin, directors Tinuke Craig and Julia Thomas, choreographers Kesha Raithatha, Lee Proud and Mel Knott, writer Jess Green and composer Tasha Taylor Johnson.
The programme has been created after consultation with parents and teachers. Lessons will include English language and literature, analytical thinking, vocal exercises, character work and choreography workshops, puppetry, disability awareness and LGBTQ+ history.
Curve Classroom will provide an educational resource for all ages, from children to adults, as part of Curve’s commitment to lifelong learning. The first lesson, songwriting with Leicestershire-based composer, lyricist and writer Jude Taylor, is available to watch now.
Curve’s chief executive Chris Stafford and artistic director Nikolai Foster said, “throughout the pandemic we’ve tried to respond positively and contribute meaningfully to the lives of our communities and audiences. Now, as our theatre continues to work online, we’re launching Curve Classroom.
“Many of the creative skills we use on a daily basis in making theatre are transferable to other aspects of life and can support teaching and learning across the curriculum.
“We sincerely hope these daily sessions will help support learning and the incredible work being done by teachers, parents and carers while offering young people an insight into the creative industries and the incredible wealth of talent and resources we have to offer.
“We’d like to extend huge thanks to our army of freelance actors, artists and practitioners who’ve responded so positively to our call-out to join the Curve Classroom.”
Once released, each video session will remain online for access at any time.