Theatre and Dance

On Sunday 13 September 2009, Leeds Grand Theatre will throw open its doors to reveal aspects of life behind the scenes of one of the country's finest Victorian theatres. Members of the public will be invited to discover what goes on behind the safety curtain, look down onto the stage from the fly tower and experience snippets of performances in Leeds' newest cultural hub, the Howard Assembly Room.

Leeds Grand Theatre and its two resident companies, Opera North and Northern Ballet Theatre, will provide a variety of activities which will take place throughout all corners and crevices of the theatre including spontaneous outbursts from Opera North’s forthcoming production of Mozart's 'Cosi Fan Tutti'.

"This is an opportunity to introduce a whole new audience to our newly opened venue, the Howard Assembly Room, particularly this year as we have a specially commissioned family opera for the winter." said Richard Mantle, General Director of Opera North.

There's a chance to join one of the backstage tours to learn more about the history of this 130 year old Grade II listed building, check out the costume displays as well as fascinating items from the theatre's archives, including playbills and programmes and discover how designers create magnificent stage sets by means of model boxes.

This will be the fourth time in recent years that Leeds Grand Theatre has invited the public for a peek behind the scenes which has seen as many as 4,000 people pass through the doors in one day in previous years.

This rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of countless theatrical greats and famous celebrities will take place on Sunday 13 September 2009 between 10.30am and 4pm. Entry is free and will also include arts and crafts activities, family sing-a-longs, treasure trails, face painting and refreshments.