Musical and drama workshops among fun for youngsters this summer at Queen’s Theatre

For youngsters, there is perhaps no better sound than the bell which signals the start of the long summer holidays.

Classrooms, exams and homework are swapped for trips out, playing in the street and lazy days in.

And to add to all that, Queen’s Theatre has a jam-packed summer schedule to keep children busy and let their creative juices flow.

On offer in Billet Lane, Hornchurch, will be workshop weeks, a wildlife talk and even a Frozen sing-a-long.

August’s Play in a Week has been a staple of the theatre’s holiday calendar for some time, but its counterpart Make a Musical in a Week only launched last year.

An immediate success, it is now returning, but its age group has been expanded to accommodate younger children.

James Watson, the theatre’s education officer, said: “These projects are something that young people absolutely love.

“We are trying to keep them entertained and busy during the summer and there is lots going on.”

Play in a Week and Make a Musical in a Week are exactly as their names suggest – five days of fun which culminate in youngsters performing productions in front of their parents.

The former features drama, games and crafts.

James said: “There are only 20 spaces on each, so they all get to have a go.

“They are absolutely for anyone, whether first timers or those at theatre schools.

“It is a brilliant opportunity to come and see what it is all about.

“At Make a Musical, they work with a professional director and musical director.

“In such a short space of time, just a few days, they learn a piece and then perform it for friends and family, which is quite a proud moment.”

Last year, the musicals workshop was for 11-16-year-olds, but Queen’s staff realised younger children were keen to get involved.

This year’s scheme has been extended so nine and 10-year-olds can join in the fun.

Youngsters aged between four and six can also enjoy some summer holiday sessions, through the theatre’s Create and Play mornings.

Held on select dates in August, the craft events will be centred on themes including “alien adventures” and “ghostly ghouls”.

Rounding off the fun next month will be a talk by Springwatch and Autumnwatch presenter Iolo Williams on August 23 and a Frozen sing-a-long on August 31.

James said: “I think these activities are great for anyone who has an interest.

“It is really important for us to try and offer ourselves out to the local community and for us as an education out-reach depart-ment to interact with young people.”

Play in a Week runs from August 3-7, with Make a Musical in a Week taking place from August 10-14. The former is £60 and the latter £90. To book onto any of these events and to find out more information, call 01708 443333 or visit queens-theatre.co.uk.