Whilst theatre companies can’t take live performance into schools for now Wassail and Tall Tails Theatre are determined to give Somerset children access to local theatre. To support teachers and home education groups this term we are offering a filmed version of our ‘Pop Up Panto’ The Tale of the Charming Rat and a supporting education pack with curriculum links. The film is available for schools on request until the end of March 2021.

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How to get the film 

A link to the 25 minute film is available on request for schools to watch untril the end of March. Email rose@wassailtheatre.co.uk with the name of your school and year group and we’ll send you the link and an education pack.

 

Free for Schools in Somerset

We have been awarded funding from Arts Council England to deliver this project to schools for free.

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Accessibility

We have worked with an Access and Inclusion Consultant and Makaton Sign Consultant to ensure high levels of access and ensure best practice in the making of this film with inclusive themes and language, audio-description, the use of sign by the characters and closed captions. 

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Curriculum Links

As well as an opportunity to sing and dance along The Tale of the Charming Rat includes themes which encourage children to explore feelings, relationships and the differences between people. To facilitate further learning we’ll provide an education pack with discussion topics and engaging task ideas which support:

KS1 & KS2 Curriculum - English, Citizenship, Music, Geography.

EYFS Statutory Framework - communication and language, personal, social and emotional development, expressive arts and design. 

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About the show 

Cooper the rat is having a very strange day… Asha has been invited to an important event and it’s up to Cooper to get her there on time and ready to party! Will he pull it off without getting caught by Rats All Folks Exterminators? You and your household are invited to join in this epic adventure and help him along the way…

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The Tale of the Charming Rat was originally made as a live outdoor show, set tour to Somerset towns and villages this season. They performed three live shows at Children’s World’s festive event in December before tighter Covid restrictions came in. Children’s world said of the performance:

 

“The Tale of the Charming Rat is a warm-hearted, beautifully performed show. Tall Tails and Wassail have successfully created a performance that is engaging and accessible for a broad audience, that is playful, musical and memorable. We loved having the show as part of our festive event.”

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If you would like any of this information in an alternate format, please contact wasson@wassailtheatre.co.uk  or call 07745653840