17th October 2025

Curtain’s up! Students discover the power of performance with Ark Culture and Ark Music 

Last month, the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre in West London came alive with energy and imagination as Ark’s year 10 drama students began their GCSE journey.

175 students from six Ark schools across London came together through the Ark Culture programme, to explore character and movement and build confidence and collaboration. 

They enjoyed a full day of workshops with the Lyric Hammersmith team, culminating in a series of performances on the theatre’s main stage. 

And then a few weeks later, it was the turn of our primary schools to experience the power of performance, with Year 4 pupils at Ark Globe Academy and Ark John Archer Academy taking part in inspiring workshops with the Royal Ballet and Opera (RBO) organised by Ark Music. 

RBO artists delivered three ‘Discover Opera’ sessions across the two schools, to help pupils deepen their understanding of dramatic singing. 

During the sessions, pupils explored their vocal and dramatic skills, workshopping a selection from Mozart’s ‘The Magic Flute’. Around 70 eight- and nine-year-olds took part. 

Ark Music has now also secured 150 free tickets for children to see the live production, and five Ark schools are off to see it at the Royal Opera House.  

Ark Culture programme manager Becky Martin said, “These engaging events gave our primary and secondary school students memorable opportunities to learn about the expressive arts through working with professional artists in exciting settings.” 

“Huge thanks to the teams from Lyric Hammersmith team and RBO for giving our young people the chance to experience music and drama beyond the classroom. 

“This is just the start of a really busy calendar of student events with Ark Culture and Ark Music this academic year. 

“We’re now gearing up for a key stage 3 Dance Day at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, bringing together schools to engage with hip hop and contemporary dance. And the Year 10 music conference for over 200 Ark students at East London Music and Dance College takes place next month.” 

Ark Culture is one of Ark’s flagship extended curriculum programmes. It was launched in 2024 to ensure every child attending an Ark school has a rich arts and cultural education. And Ark Music was launched in 2009 so that all Ark pupils can enjoy a school life enriched by music.