This week, Year 6 students experienced an extraordinary opportunity to step into the enchanting world of dance with a virtual lesson led by the Royal Ballet and Opera. Themed Everybody Dance: ‘Alice’s Adventures’, this session brought the magic of Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale to life through movement and music, inspiring creativity and joy.
The lesson kicked off with an introduction by professional dancers and educators from the Royal Ballet. They warmly welcomed the students and shared insights into the world of ballet, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. With Alice’s journey as the inspiration, students were encouraged to use their imaginations and bring Wonderland’s characters to life through expressive movements.
The session was a blend of storytelling and dance, with the instructors guiding students through scenes from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Each segment focused on a specific part of the story, inviting students to explore movements that represented Alice’s curiosity, the White Rabbit’s hurried hops and the Mad Hatters’ quirky style. The children’s movements reflected the whimsy and unpredictability of Wonderland, with moments of fluid grace interspersed with quirky, sharp gestures.
One of the highlights was the group activity centred around the Mad Hatter’s tea party. Students were invited to choreograph their own “mad” dance routines, drawing inspiration from the characters and their antics. Even in a virtual format, the session fostered a sense of collaboration and community, as students shared their creative interpretations with peers.
The instructors also shared snippets of professional performances from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, offering students a glimpse of the artistry and dedication involved in bringing the story to the stage. This connection to professional ballet inspired many children to push their creative boundaries.
Beyond the joy of dancing, the session provided valuable educational benefits. Students developed physical skills such as coordination, balance, and rhythm while also enhancing their storytelling abilities. The cross-curricular connection to literature deepened their understanding of the narrative, making the lesson both enriching and entertaining.
As the session drew to a close, students reflected on their favourite moments. Many loved embodying the eccentric characters, while others found joy in creating their unique choreography. “It was very interesting and introduced you into a mythical world! And it showed us how the character would feel and act.” One student exclaimed, their excitement mirrored by their peers.