Explore Lothians Year 3

Little Murmur by Aakash Odedra Company c. Pamela Raith
Little Murmur by Aakash Odedra Company c. Pamela Raith
We watched the Hope River Girls performance. It was a powerful piece and provoked a lot of discussion about mental well-being, gender equality, influence of social media and the impact of public opinion.

—P6 Teacher, Oakwood Primary

In Year 3 of Explore (2021-22), 17 schools took part in this project to develop learners' and teachers’ interest in live performance and to understand how to integrate the experience into schools resources.

This programme enabled schools to experience a range of theatre and dance, both within their own environments and as part of a visit to the Edinburgh International Children’s Festival or Festival on Tour. School and Imaginate staff worked together to develop each school’s experience.

The schools involved this year included:

West Lothian: Dedridge Primary,  Kirknewton Primary, St Columba’s Primary, St Joseph’s RC Primary, St Marys RC Primary, St Thomas’ RC Primary
Edinburgh: Bonaly Primary, Duddingston Primary, Hermitage Park Primary, Pirniehall Primary, St Andrews Fox Covert RC Primary
Highland and Islands: Golspie Primary
Argyll & Bute: Tobermory High School
Glasgow: Aultmore Park Primary, Cuthbertson Primary, Glendale Gaelic Primary, Oakwood Primary

This was a fantastic opportunity to experience culture that they wouldn't be able to see if not for this experience.

—Class Teacher, West Lothian

Theatre in Schools Scotland

2,357 children across all 17 schools took part in dance performance and workshop experiences from Mixed Up, Family Portrait or Buff & Sheen in their own school.

Edinburgh International Children's Festival

744 children from 10 of the Explore schools also took part in the Festival enjoying a range of shows within the programme. 
Teachers from all Lothians Explore schools were also invited to a special performance at the Festival, joining up with Teachers Theatre Club to discover and discuss a show for young audiences.

Edinburgh International Children's Festival on Tour

222 children from 6 of the Explore schools saw a performance of The Hope River Girls in their local theatre; Lyth Arts, Mull Theatre or Platform.

Rapunzel by National Theatre of Scotland

All schools were also given free access to National Theatre of Scotland’s Rapunzel which was made available online in the run up to Christmas.