Curtain Up!: Behind the Scenes at the Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House in London is hosting The Nutcracker, and Figaro the cat takes readers on a behind-the-scenes tour to meet the performers and learn about the production. The tour includes trying on costumes, practicing fighting scenes, and creating explosions on stage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2022
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

A Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Majestic Royal Opera House in London


Thirty minutes before curtain up, on the opening night of The Nutcracker, the performers at the Royal Opera House in London are bustling with activity, getting ready to take the stage. Meanwhile, Figaro, the opera house's resident cat, is poised to take readers on a captivating behind-the-scenes tour to meet the many individuals who are working tirelessly to ensure that tonight's performance is a resounding success.


This backstage tour of the Royal Opera House takes readers on a journey from department to department, unveiling the intricate processes involved in putting on a performance of the caliber of The Nutcracker. Highlights of the tour include trying on the iconic Mad Hatters wig from Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland, practicing for a thrilling fighting scene from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, putting the final touches on the Sugar Plum Fairy's tutu, learning the art of 'playing dead,' and creating explosive stage effects.


In addition to providing an introduction to a classical orchestra, key ballet terms, and basic stage directions, the book encourages readers to explore the many ways in which they can get involved in the world of opera and ballet. Whether it's through attending performances, studying music or dance, or even trying their hand at stage makeup or costume design, there is something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate in the realm of the performing arts.


So, join Figaro on this unforgettable backstage tour of the Royal Opera House, as he reveals the secrets behind the scenes and introduces you to the talented individuals who make opera and ballet come alive on stage. Prepare to be transported into a world of passion, creativity, and sheer spectacle, where dreams become reality and the magic of the performing arts takes center stage.

Weight: 484g
Dimension: 251 x 301 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500652510