Archive: First published in November 2024 and updated with the January 2025 result.
Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre were shortlisted for two categories at the 2025 Music and Drama Education Awards. On 30 January 2025, the team won Excellence in Primary & Early Years for its Satellite Opera House scheme.
The nominations recognised the Work Experience programme for Outstanding Drama Initiative and Satellite Opera House for Excellence in Primary & Early Years. Allie Spencer, Head of Creative Learning and Engagement, praised both programmes.
“It is great to be selected as finalists for these awards. We are really proud of both our Work Experience programme and our Satellite Opera House scheme. We are creating exciting pathways and opportunities for young people to access the industry as well as developing meaningful partnerships with our local schools. We are very grateful to all our skilled staff and freelance practitioners who work with us on these programmes.”
The ‘Outstanding Drama Initiative’ nomination highlights the Work Experience program’s role in helping local youth create a touring Theatre in Education production, while gaining invaluable industry insight.
Vicky Giliker, then headteacher of Harpur Hill Primary School, a partner school, said:
“This is an incredible project where the young actors and technicians are positive role models for our primary school students. Our students not only gain a lot from the play itself and its important messages, but they also have a glimpse of positive activities they can get involved in at secondary school and possible future jobs.”
The Satellite Opera House scheme brought drama and musical theatre to schools in the High Peak, supporting after-school activities and staff training in the arts.
The Opera House said Arts Council England funding helped make these initiatives available to schools and students without charge at the time of the award.
Read the Opera House’s 2025 award announcement.
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