£52.00 (Non JG member)
Overview
High above the surrounding rooftops, the vast, purpose-built Bob and Tamar Manoukian Production Workshop is where scenic painters, carpenters and metalworkers bring the magic of the stage to life. This is where the Royal Ballet and Opera’s spectacular sets are crafted—turning designers’ visions into reality for the ballet and opera productions in Covent Garden. Nestled within the beautifully landscaped High House Production Park in Purfleet, Essex, the Production Workshop offers a fascinating and inspiring glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship behind theatre and costume design. This guided tour takes visitors through the state-of-the-art workshop and the newly refurbished Costume Centre and workrooms, offering a rare opportunity to see firsthand the intricate work that goes into creating world-class performances. Rainham Marshes: Rainham Marshes is carefully managed to make sure it has the perfect conditions for its wildlife. We graze cattle and manage water levels to create a patchwork of clumpy wet grassland and semi-permanent pools. This is the ideal habitat for marshland birds such as Lapwings and Redshanks as well as for wintering wildfowl, waders and some birds of prey. The ditches are also looked after to help Water Voles, reptiles, amphibians and minibeasts thrive. Some areas of the tall grass and scrub are left unmanaged to provide ideal hunting grounds for wintering Short-eared Owls as well as nesting sites for Reed Buntings. We take special care of some of our sandy areas, where some of our specialist insect life likes to live. We will split into two groups, one group doing the Workshop first and the other group visiting Rainham before swapping over. There is a small café at Rainham but you may also like to bring some refreshments.