Norwich Theatre is delighted to announce its annual Open Day, which returns on 9 Aug, offering the ultimate trip out for any theatre fan. This completely free event offers a unique chance to go behind the scenes and discover how the magic of theatre is brought to life. Start your Open Day adventure with a guided, access-all-areas tour of Norwich Theatre Royal and Stage Two.
You’ll go backstage, explore beneath the stage, peek into dressing rooms, and even stand on the stage itself! Prefer to explore at your own pace? A self-guided route is also available. To ensure the day is accessible for everyone, audio-described, level-access, and quiet tours are available.
After treading the boards, it’s your turn to get involved! See fly rail demonstrations, try your hand at lighting the stage, or check out the prompt desk. Ever wondered about a career in theatre? Don’t miss our Tech Talks with the Technical Department. These bookable sessions are perfect for anyone curious about what happens behind the bright lights, offering insights into life backstage and career opportunities.
During the day, you will have the opportunity to explore Norwich Theatre’s archive and learn from our volunteer archivist about the theatre’s rich history. Feel like unleashing your inner diva? Try on some of our fabulous costumes from past pantos, or consider getting your face painted. Don’t forget to tick this all off your family activity trail for your chance to win some fantastic prizes.
The fun doesn’t stop there! Head to Norwich Theatre’s restaurant Prelude for Dino Jam, a hilarious and free 20-minute puppetry show starring a Stegosaurus, Brachiosaurus, and Pteranodon. Following the performance, join a hands-on puppet-making workshop for families. Keep your eyes peeled around the building for walkabout meet-and-greets with the Dino Jam cast!
You can also join Cinderella and her friends for a trip to the seaside! Visit the pumpkin coconut shy, try your luck surfing the waves, or paddle about in the soft play area. Feeling parched after all the excitement? The Café Royal will be open throughout the day, serving a selection of hot and cold drinks, as well as ice cream.
Open Day is an opportunity for people of all ages not only to get behind the scenes, but to learn more about the difference we make in our communities. Friends and Supporters Manager, Hannah Crouch, explains:
“Norwich Theatre is a registered charity and we are proud to be able to use the many talents of our creative teams that are on show during the day to support those who need it most with life-changing creative experiences; from music workshops for people living with dementia to holiday programmes for care experienced young people.
“Open Day gives us a fantastic opportunity to share more about our work to support education, creative engagement and artistic development activities in the community with people who feel as passionately about the positive impact of creativity as much as we do.”
Open Day runs between 10am and 3pm and is completely free to attend. For more information or to book a Tech Tour or an accessible guided tour, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000. Those wishing to make a donation to Norwich Theatre can do so on the day or online at norwichtheatre.org/friends-support
