This autumn, our Hippodrome Education Network (HEN) schools were part of an exciting project focussed on the classic musical Blood Brothers, which visited our auditorium in October.

The lucky students participated in a workshop session in their school with Sean Jones, who played the role of Mikey for 20 years and said: “I had so much fun going around the local schools. Seeing how engaged they were with the show was exciting and its really refreshing to find a theatre taking ‘outreach’ to fantastic levels! All the students were bubbling with ideas and energy.”

The students then came to the Hippodrome two weeks later to take part in practical performance workshops, backstage tours and an exclusive Q&A session with the Blood Brothers cast before watching a performance.

Last week, (21.11.19) the project culminated in a two day festival in our Patrick Studio with the HEN groups performing their own piece inspired by the themes in the show. The performances were all judged by an independent panel including Birmingham Hippodrome board member Immy Kaur and Rob Elkington from Arts Connect.

As an independent charity, Birmingham Hippodrome relies on regular support from charitable donations and sponsorship to deliver Hippodrome Projects, which includes our transformational learning projects through HEN.

This year, we are joining The Big Give to raise £20,000 to give the gift of theatre to 4,000 young people in 2020. From Tuesday 3rd December to Tuesday 10th December, donations will also be doubled. You can find out how you can donate and support our campaign here.

The feedback from the young people and teachers below reinforces just how much access to the arts can change lives and we want to ensure we can continue offering these experiences to thousands more.

“We were immersed into this spectacular day of workshops, events, tours and questions with the cast of Blood Brothers, it was so important to us, as it allows us to get a deeper and more engaging look into the production. It will be integral for our exams next year.” Charlie Year 11

“The best thing I have ever done in a theatre, it has inspired to work within the arts and even start by volunteering at my local theatre.” Jasmine Year 11

“The trip to the Birmingham Hippodrome was so enriching for the students as many of them had not left the local area before. Students found out a lot of information about the history of the theatre and even got a backstage tour.
Meeting the cast gave students a good insight on being an actor/actress and the show itself was incredible.” Teacher, Star Bank Secondary

“This was the most exciting experience I have ever had!” Juwayriyah, Year 7

“These boys have lapped up every second, it has bonded them as an acting company, increased their confidence tenfold and inspired them to chase their performing dreams. The Hippodrome Education Network has provided timeless memories for staff and student to enjoy.” Teacher, Kings Norton Boys School

You can find out more about The Big Give here and HEN here.