BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY WAS A SCORCHER

Finally, it is summer! How wonderful to be out in the open when we can. Particularly as we have so many shows that lend themselves perfectly to outdoor performances. None better than “Robin Hood Rescues the Forest” with our image of the MAJOR OAK in the background, and some trees for the woodcutter and the wicked sheriff’s men to fell. We recently entertained 30 or so nursery children with “The Hare & the Tortoise” in the outdoor play area, and conducted an “ANIMALS WORKSHOP” to round off the morning. Gingerbread Man prefers running on the grass than the hall floor, particularly as it is rather hot work keeping up with the children urging him on with the “run, run as fast as you can” song. Of course, there are challenges, especially when the wind gets up and our Lost Tomb fig tree has a mind to blow over, or our back drops act like sails. But hey, that is all part of the fun. Less so when the clouds open!! But let us not be gloomy, stay positive and when the opportunity presents itself, go for it. We are here to meet your every wish, inside or out. Until next time, some more pictures, Albert

EASTER CAME AND WENT

As time passes, I wonder if Easter is trying to outwit Christmas in the food stakes.

Endless Easter eggs, panettone, simnel, pannacotta et al in the food line fill the shelves.

Multiple choices and opportunities to expand our waistlines.

Well, never let it be said that Aesop’s Theatre missed out on such opportunities.

The advent of the Summer Term brings with it substantial savings for schools enterprising enough to simply request one of our special “Summer Deals”.

Discounts are available for multiple bookings of one or more plays or workshops for the different or same key stages.

If we fit two shows in a morning, there is a saving on the whole day fee.

There is so much on offer: just ask or, better still, tell us your budget and be pleasantly surprised when we meet it.

For us, Theatre in Education was never a get rich plan, but rather to provide children with opportunities they may never otherwise experience.

Until I write again, take a look at some of what is on offer:

TELL US WHAT YOU WANT

Last time I wrote, I told you we launched our company in 1999, on the IDES OF MARCH, a date we shall never forget.

Back then, we had just the one play “THE STORY OF AESOP’S FABLES” and, true to say, schools could book it for the proverbial song. After all, it was just an idea at the time, and who knew if it would work.

Well, it really took off. So, we wrote more plays and introduced workshops to accompany them.

Today, we have ten scripted plays and an infinite number of workshops with more being added regularly. Think of a subject and we will construct a fully interactive drama workshop in which the children can learn, explore and realise their creativity.

And, it doesn’t stop there. We have the specialist skills to assist you with your teaching. Long gone are the boring days of snoozing in class, half listening to teacher droning on. Today, it is “up and at it”. “Hands on” is the call and that is exactly what we are. Whatever the need, we will be there to fill it.

If you are thinking of putting on a production, perhaps at Christmas, and need some assistance, just get in touch. We will be happy to help.

Enough said – more pictures, Albert….

THE KIDS COME FIRST

On the Ides of March 1999, we launched our Company with the first performance of our play

“The Story of Aesop’s Fables”

It was a huge success, and is still very much in demand.

Sadly, since then I have witnessed with dismay the ever-reducing budget for primary education.

I firmly believe Theatre in Education is an essential part of the education process.

I recognise also that schools may offer the only opportunity for too many living in deprived areas to witness live drama.

It seems our rulers have little regard for the arts.

Theatre plays no part in their thinking.

Bold statements perhaps, but where is the incentive for schools to promote this culture?

Well, if the Government won’t do it, we certainly will.

Please take a look at our website www.aesopstheatre.co.uk and see the many Plays and Drama Workshops we offer.

Then, tell us how much you can afford, and we will try our hardest to accommodate you. After all, as I have stated in my heading, “THE KIDS REALLY DO COME FIRST”.

As I leave you, take a look at what the kids could be enjoying in these pictures, Albert…..

SO FAR, SO GOOD

 
I know one should not speak too soon, but I cannot ignore the fact that Christmas came and went without a single cancellation through bad weather.

We fulfilled every commitment, and took joy in seeing the happy faces of the children enjoying their Christmas treats.

We are now keeping our fingers crossed that the schools remain open throughout the rest of the Winter months.

Workshops are currently much in demand, and we are constantly adding to our already large portfolio. Healthy life styles are a prominent feature. Particularly sensible eating and drinking and plenty of exercising. We recognize how difficult it is to resist when so many sugary drinks are proffered on TV and in the media. The Governments ban on free refills for the worst offenders certainly helps us in re-enforcing the message on avoiding obesity.

Of course, it is not all so gloomy. We are looking forward to Spring when the children can be outdoors participating. We have lots of new ideas and programmes, all designed to keep the kids fit and healthy.

If you want some details and more information, please send me an email or give me a call.

Until next time, more pictures.

Albert…….

 

DID I MISS IT?

You may recall my aspirations for schools in the November budget.

Well, I have searched and searched again, but nowhere can I find mention of schools or education generally.

Of course, I must have missed it. After all, what chancellor could ignore such an important issue?

Moving on,

We have some great new ideas for 2026. We are adding to our repertoire with a batch of creative workshops entitled

“MYSTERY ADVENTURES”

There will be a choice of subjects, and the intention will be to solve the mysteries using the clues provided. Primary children of all ages will be able to participate and, with the aid of our actors, be encouraged to create their own plots. We believe working together plays a major part in a child’s development and assists greatly in the learning process, helping to develop children’s appreciation of what they will be facing in the next level of education and the outside world.

You may wish to use it as a way of rewarding children for their good work or attendance record, or just to have a themed party.

When you have a moment, give me a call or buzz me an email, and I will gladly tell you more.

Happy New Year.

Albert….

 

 

ANOTHER CHALLENGING YEAR AWAITS US

I am writing this in advance of the November budget in the firm belief that our eminent chancellor, Rachel Thieves (sorry, Reeves) will bestow vast amounts of money on our beleaguered schools.

No longer will the mums send their kids to school with their bags filled with writing pads, pencils and toilet paper.

Oh, if it were only true!

Sadly, we must return to reality. And what that means for us.

I have long argued the case for the arts in schools. I firmly believe in the benefits of live drama in the knowledge that so many children will never have the opportunity to enjoy a trip to the theatre. Running a Theatre in Education company, I can barely afford it myself, and I am in the business!

We soldier on, happy in the knowledge that we are here to stay. Our creative skills enable us to cater for every need. Whatever the study subject, we will enhance it with a play, or workshop, or both.

The good news for you is that like so many our fees have not kept abreast of rising costs. There are bargains to be had. Just ask.

Until next time, I wish you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR, and leave you with some more pictures from live shows.

Albert......