Huddersfield half-term treats with the Orchestra of Opera North

The Orchestra of Opera North is set to bewitch a new generation with the power of music with live soundtrack screenings of Stick Man and Room on the Broom, the much-loved animations from the creators of The Gruffalo, at Huddersfield Town Hall on Tuesday 24 October.

The early evening half-term treat will open with the first ever live UK performance of René Aubry’s score for Stick Man, complete with the animation on the big screen. Based on the children’s picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, the half-hour animation follows the adventures of Stick Man (voiced by Martin Freeman) as he’s carried ever further away from his family after being snatched by a playful dog whilst on his morning jog.

Donaldson and Scheffler’s magical tale about friendship and family, Room on the Broom completes the enchanting double bill. A kind witch invites a surprising collection of animals to join her on her broom, much to the frustration of her cat. But the gang saves the witch from a fearsome dragon, and in gratitude she rewards them with a magnificent new broom which has room for everyone.

Full of excitement and emotion, René Aubry’s music is the perfect introduction to the symphony orchestra for a younger audience, and a thrilling live accompaniment to the adventures unfolding on screen. As with all most orchestral concerts in the Kirklees Concert Season, tickets for children aged 16 and under are priced at just £1, or £4 for ages 17 – 29.

“I love René Aubry’s scores”, says former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson, the author of nearly 200 children’s books and the fourth biggest-selling writer in British history. “I grew up in a musical home, and went to lots of concerts as a child, which made a big impact on my life and career. Recorded music is all very well but there’s nothing like the excitement of a live orchestra.

“I’m thrilled that Opera North is going to be performing the music of Stick Man and Room on the Broom this autumn, and I’m sure this will be a wonderful experience for the children in Huddersfield.”

The Orchestra of Opera North performs Stick Man and Room on the Broom at Huddersfield Town Hall at 6pm on Tuesday 24 September. Tickets, priced at £12 - £26 (£4 for ages 17 – 29; £1 for ages 16 and under) can be booked via the Box Office on 01484 225755 and online at kirkleestownhalls.co.uk

For more information visit https://tickets.kirklees.gov.uk/en-GB/shows/orchestra%20of%20opera%20north%20-%20stick%20man%20-%20room%20on%20the%20broom/events/2