‘I will remember this forever’ – Year 3 pupil
This February, OAE Education returned to County Durham with two sell-out performances of The Fairy Queen: Three Wishes at the Consett Empire. Composer James Redwood and writer Hazel Gould’s magical family adventure, based on Henry Purcell’s Shakespeare-inspired 1692 opera, thrilled adults and children alike:
"Their vocals were over the roof!"
Child actor
"My parents have been to many, many concerts and were blown away by how special it was. Multi-generational and involving musicians at the start of their journey and at the very top of their game, but all sharing the same stage."
Staff (Durham Music Service)
The OAE and a fabulous professional cast were joined by Durham Youth Choir, 20 students from Consett Academy, eight child actors, as well as over 300 primary school pupils from across County Durham.
"My daughter has suffered with huge anxiety issues recently but took part with the Youth Choir and it was absolutely the best thing for her and her confidence. She said she felt emotional in the final number as she realised it was coming to an end!!! This is the first thing she has been involved in at all in over two years because of anxiety. So I personally have seen the impact as a proud parent!"
Parent
The concerts were the culmination of our annual residency in County Durham, comprising CPD training, workshops, and rehearsals in the months running up to the performances.
"My students gained so much, much more than the performance and that was already phenomenal!"
Teacher
Our tour continues in York with a TOTS concert at the NCEM on June 8 and two performances of The Fairy Queen: Three Wishes on Wednesday 11 June at the Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, University of York.
"You have truly made an enormous impact on the young people across County Durham!"
Staff (Durham Music Service)
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