Two Leeds cultural institutions are collaborating for the first time to develop twelve new pieces of museum theatre bringing the historical collection to life.
A combat demonstration by actors from the Royal Armouries. Photo courtesy of the Royal Armouries
The Royal Armouries has laid down the gauntlet to Leeds Conservatoire students, challenging a group of fifty to create twelve works in under ten days. The works will be performed to the public on a special museum takeover day on Friday 7 June.
Tristan Langlois, Head of Education and Events at the Royal Armouries, said: “The Royal Armouries actor-interpretation team is excited to work with the staff and students of Leeds Conservatoire. Drama has formed a cornerstone of how we engage diverse audiences with our unique, beautiful, but also at times emotionally charged collection since our flagship Leeds museum opened in 1996.
“We’re confident our challenging setting has much to offer and inspire students, but we also look forward to learning and benefitting from their fresh energy and different perspectives in a collaboration we know will be greater than the sum of its parts.”
The actor-interpretation team is lending its expertise of illustrating what it felt like to take part in legendary battles, inspiring the students to do the same. Students are about to complete their first year of training on the conservatoire’s undergraduate Acting and Actor Musician courses and are ready for the challenge.
Erin Carter, Head of the School of Drama at Leeds Conservatoire, added: "Leeds Conservatoire staff and students are thrilled to be partnering with the Royal Armouries on a Leeds Conservatoire takeover. This collaboration isn't just about sharing stages; it's about opening doors to creative opportunities for our students, widening their perspectives on what it means to be a working actor, and fostering collaboration that celebrates the vibrant spirit of our city.
“Through this partnership, we're empowering new artists to tell their stories, enriching our cultural landscape, and forging connections that resonate far beyond the stage."
The new pieces will be performed throughout the takeover day on Friday 7 June at the Royal Armouries. Entry to the museum is free. All galleries, daily live shows, and combat demonstrations are also free.
