Organising a performing arts trip can be one of the most rewarding experiences for students.
These educational tours allow students to engage deeply with their craft, explore new artistic horizons, and gain exposure to world-renowned performances and institutions. Whether you’re planning a theatre, music, or dance tour, careful planning is essential to ensure that the trip is educational, enjoyable, and enriching for all involved.
At Activ4 School Tours, we have extensive experience in organising performing arts trips and helping educators make these experiences impactful. Here’s a comprehensive guide for teachers planning performing arts tours, complete with destination suggestions, preparation tips, and expected outcomes.
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Choosing the Right Destination
When planning a performing arts trip, the destination can greatly influence the overall experience for students. Here are a few destination suggestions based on the type of performing arts you are focusing on:
London: The Heart of Theatre
London is known worldwide for its incredible theatre scene, including the iconic West End. For schools focusing on theatre arts, London offers a wide range of musicals, plays, and drama workshops that will inspire students.
💡 Suggested Activities:
- West End Shows: Attend a performance, such as The Lion King, Les Misérables, or Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
- Workshops: Organise a workshop with professional actors or theatre companies.
- Backstage Tours: Take a guided tour of world-famous theatres like the Royal Opera House or the Globe Theatre.
New York City: The Broadway Experience
New York City is synonymous with Broadway—a must-visit destination for theatre enthusiasts. The Broadway district is home to world-class performances and provides students with the chance to experience musicals, plays, and live music in one of the most iconic theatre districts in the world.
💡 Suggested Activities:
- Broadway Shows: Watch a classic Broadway show or a new hit production.
- Meet-and-Greet with Professionals: Arrange for students to meet Broadway performers or attend workshops with industry professionals.
- Performing Arts Museums: Visit the Museum of the Moving Image or the Lincoln Centre for deeper insight into the arts.
Paris: The Dance and Opera Capital
Paris has long been a cultural hub for the performing arts, especially for students studying ballet and opera. The city offers both traditional and modern performance spaces, providing an excellent opportunity for exposure to various forms of dance and music.
💡 Suggested Activities:
- Ballet at the Paris Opera: Experience a performance at the legendary Palais Garnier or Opéra Bastille.
- Dance Workshops: Participate in French dance classes or take a workshop at a renowned dance school.
- Opera Tours: Discover the world of opera through guided tours and performances at Opéra Garnier.
Berlin: A Hub for Contemporary Music and Dance
Berlin is famous for its avant-garde art scene, which makes it an ideal destination for contemporary music and modern dance students. The city offers a rich mix of classical and experimental performances, alongside the opportunity for students to engage with modern art and music institutions.
💡 Suggested Activities:
- Concerts at the Berlin Philharmonie: Attend a classical concert at one of the world’s top concert halls.
- Contemporary Dance Shows: Watch performances at the Schaubühne Theatre or Volksbühne.
- Street Performances: Explore the city’s vibrant street art and performance scene, which can offer students a unique artistic perspective.
Preparation Tips for Teachers
Set Clear Learning Objectives:
Before you embark on the trip, it’s essential to establish clear learning objectives. This will help students understand the purpose of the tour and keep them focused throughout the experience.
Performance Observations:
Encourage students to take notes during performances and analyse the techniques used.
Workshops and Classes:
Set learning goals for workshops, such as mastering a particular technique or gaining insights from professionals in the field.
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Coordinate with Performing Arts Venues
Contact theatres, dance studios, and concert halls well in advance to arrange group bookings and workshops. Many venues offer special packages for schools, which can include backstage tours, meet-and-greets with performers, and tailored educational sessions.
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Include a Cultural and Historical Component
A performing arts trip is more than just watching shows—it’s an opportunity to immerse students in the culture and history of the destination. Incorporate cultural excursions, such as visits to museums, historical landmarks, and artist workshops. This will enrich students’ understanding of the artistic movements they are studying.
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Budget and Fundraising
As performing arts trips can be costly, it’s important to plan your budget carefully. Consider the cost of travel, accommodation, tickets to performances, and additional activities such as workshops or cultural excursions.
- Fundraising Ideas: Host fundraising events like concerts, talent shows, or bake sales to help raise money for the trip.
Expected Outcomes of a Performing Arts Trip:
Enhanced Skills and Technique
One of the primary benefits of a performing arts trip is the opportunity for students to develop their skills and technique. Workshops and masterclasses led by professionals provide a hands-on learning experience that cannot be replicated in the classroom.
Greater Cultural Appreciation
Exposure to different performance styles and art forms encourages cultural awareness and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of performing arts worldwide. Students will gain a broader understanding of how the performing arts are practised in various cultures.
Increased Confidence
Performing arts trips offer students the chance to step out of their comfort zones, whether by performing in front of an audience or engaging with industry professionals. This can significantly boost their confidence and inspire them to pursue their artistic passions further.
Lifelong Memories and Inspiration
Finally, a performing arts trip can provide students with unforgettable memories. Whether it’s attending a world-class performance or learning from a renowned artist, these experiences can serve as inspiration for future careers or simply a lifelong love of the arts.
Ready to Plan Your Performing Arts Trip?
If you’re looking for expert guidance and planning support for your next performing arts tour, Activ4 School Tours is here to help. We specialise in organising bespoke educational tours tailored to your school’s needs, with destinations ranging from London to New York, Paris to Berlin.
