Museums Journal asked a group of young journalists from Children's Express to tell us what they thought of Museums and Galleries Month exhibitions around the country.
| We all enjoyed seeing the end product of someone made up as Cleopatra, but found the process really dull. |
The Theatre Museum, London
This was the first visit for all of us to the Theatre Museum, tucked away in the heart of London's theatreland. We expected it to be a big stuffy place full of pictures and costumes, but our initial impression was 'wow'! It was very modern, with fabulous lighting, scene-setting music, bright colours and incredibly eye-catching displays.
We started off by taking a 30-minute guided tour, which really wasn't a guided tour at all but more like an introductory overview of the theatre. This proved to be really interesting for the older members of the group, but those under 15 found it boring with too much information all at once, and no interaction.
Some of us found the guide enthusiastic and knowledgeable, others said he talked too fast and said nothing to appeal to a young audience.
Next we sat in on a theatrical make up demonstration. We all enjoyed seeing the end product of someone made up as Cleopatra, but found the process really dull. The make up artist gave us very little information about what she was doing. In fact she said very little at all. Although she was clearly talented at her job, we didn't think she was a good communicator at all, and was poorly organised with her kit. One child was snoring away after five minutes. Most of us think it would have been better if it hadn't been an adult chosen from the audience for the demonstration.
Next we visited From the catwalk to the Stage, an interactive workshop with amazing, eccentric designs from talented fashion students. And it gave some of us the chance to try on catwalk inspired theatrical costumes: Alice in Wonderland - which was a cross between a Japanese Kimono and the flared trousers worn by the women from Abba - as well as a stunning Gaultier-style classical, period dress.
We found this workshop informative and fun - just the sort of thing to attract people who wouldn't normally go to museums. It was certainly something which appeals to all ages.
Finally we all had a real laugh in the Museum's brand new interactive exhibition, Taking Shape. Described as 'a journey through a landscape of changing shapes and everyday materials', we stepped into a world of lifesize-puppets which we could control, bean-bags models, a maze made out of tape measures and a fluorescent flying saucer. We found this exhibition really cool and it gave us all a chance to be big kids, whatever our ages. We were also impressed by the friendly staff, who showed us how it all worked and encouraged us to play.
We think the Theatre Museum is great value - considering that it is free for under 16s - and there's enough there to entertain young people who would never normally consider going to a Museum or show an interest in theatre.
About the team
This article was produced by Akosua Bonsu, 15, Alisha Fuller, 15, Carmen Kalnars, 12, and Jonathan Ijoyah, 10 from the London Bureau of Children's Express. Akosua and Alisha both enjoy going to the theatre. Carmen and Jonathan both enjoy drama at school. Akosua, Carmen and Alisha occasionally go to museums. This was only Jonathan's second visit to one.
It was published in Museums Journal. For more reviews in the series, see column, left.
