In these unpredictable times the Arts are more important than ever as many of us are turning to platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video as well as the on demand sites from the regular TV Channels. But did you know that many theatres and companies have put their shows online for you to watch, for free! So if you’re looking for a change from your regular viewing, fed up with Cbeebies and Peppa Pig or starting to feel like you’ve ‘completed Netflix’ here are some suggestions of places to visit and support.
The Royal Opera House:
Home to The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet here is the ROH’s information about when the streamed performances will be available. They are being shown on Facebook and YouTube and some of their previous content such as Darcy Bussell: Looking For Margot is already available on BBC iPlayer.
A personal recommendation from me is to watch some of the behind the scenes episodes on their YouTube channel:
The Nutcracker: Behind the scenes preparations (The Royal Ballet)
The Sleeping Beauty – Behind the Costume (The Royal Ballet)
The Wind in the Willows:
This is the 2017 production from the London Palladium
https://www.willowsmusical.com/
BalletBoyz:
This all male company was founded in 2000. Some of their work is currently available to view on YouTube and as a digital download but their website promises there is more to come.
https://www.balletboyz.com/
The RSC:
The RSC is working with the BBC to keep bring their productions to audiences during this time, and listed here are six shows that will be available in the coming weeks.
https://www.rsc.org.uk/news/culture-in-quarantine
The RSC also has some excellent education resources available.
https://www.rsc.org.uk/shakespeare-learning-zone
Many of the performers and creative teams who dedicate their lives to entertaining us have found themselves suddenly out of work with no idea as to when the next job will arrive. This industry has been totally thrown by the current global chaos so please remember who you turned to whilst you were stuck indoors doing the right thing and support them all when we return to normality by going to the cinema, your local theatre, re-booking tickets to a concert or West End show.
I am sure that more companies will continue to work towards putting content online for free but for now these are a selection I have found. Enjoy!
Stay Safe.