Curve launches new initiative to support home-schooling during lockdown

A brand new educational initiative is being launched by Curve Leicester to support home-schooling during this national lockdown.

Curve Classroom will be available on the venue’s website and Youtube channel, with sessions every weekday from 4pm. Leading artists have signed up to deliver the programme including performers Molly Lynch, Garry Robson, Cathy Tyson and Hareet Deol, Designers Grace Smart and Kate Unwin, Directors Tinuke Craig and Julia Thomas, Choreographers Kesha Raithatha, Lee Proud and Mel Knott, Writer Jess Green and Composer and Curve Associate Tasha Taylor Johnson, as well as a number of Midlands-based artists local to Curve in Leicester.

The programme will include English Language and Literature, analytical thinking, vocal exercises, character work and choreography workshops, as well as puppetry, disability awareness and LGBTQ+ history. The learning material will be suitable for all ages, as part of Curve’s commitment to lifelong learning.

The first lesson is on songwriting, led by Leicestershire-based composer, lyricist and writer Jude Taylor, and is available to watch now.

Curve’s Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Artistic Director Nikolai Foster said: “Throughout the pandemic, we have tried to respond positively and contribute meaningfully to the lives of our communities and audiences. Now in our nation’s third lockdown - and as our theatre continues to work online - we are launching our very own Curve Classroom to support home-schooling led by Curve practitioners.

“Many of the creative skills we use on a daily basis in making theatre are transferable to other aspects of life and can support teaching and learning across the curriculum. Literacy, music, complex problem-solving, forming well-reasoned arguments, teamwork and developing the imagination, are just some of the skills our practitioners will share in their online tutorials.

“We sincerely hope these daily sessions will help support learning and the incredible work being done by teachers, parents and carers, whilst also offering young people an insight into the creative industries and the incredible wealth of talent and resources we have to offer. We’d like to extend huge thanks to our army of freelance actors, local artists and practitioners who have responded so positively to our call out to join the Curve Classroom.”

Once released, each video session will remain online for access at any time.

For more information, please click here.