Open Rehearsal London is a city-wide arts and culture event giving Londoners the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at a string of theatre, music, opera and dance venues. For three days Open Rehearsal sees a selection of high profile performing arts venues open their doors and invite the public to see what happens backstage, in exclusive rehearsal sessions.

A world of culture in London
With Open Rehearsal 2008 fans of theatre, live music and dance can dive into a world of culture and go backstage at a selection of major venues. Expect an eclectic weekend of live entertainment in one of the most culturally rich cities in the world, as well as a unique insight into the machinations of world class performances and shows.

Participating venues
Venues taking part in Open Rehearsal London include the National Gallery, Museum of London, Royal Opera House, National Theatre and BBC Maida Vale Studios. More contemporary venues holding some of the Open Rehearsal sessions include the ICA and the Wellcome Collection. You can take part in a playwriting workshop at the Royal Court Theatre or go backstage to join the dancers as they go through their paces at the Barbican.

Exclusive rehearsals
If you’ve ever wondered what the rehearsal for a major recital or performance is like, then the Open Rehearsal London weekend is the perfect chance to find out. A number of rehearsal sessions will be taking place throughout the week, where you can expect to see leading performers in a uniquely casual and lively atmosphere.

Get involved
In addition to the Open Rehearsal programme a range of workshops and special events will be taking place, giving visitors the chance to get creative and have a go. Workshops in music, directing, acting, writing and singing will be on the menu, offering something to meet all talents. Stars will be out in force once more this year as the likes of Billy Bragg takes up a mass guitar busking session at the Southbank Centre, so you will be joining a very elite crowd of artists wherever you go.

Kicking off the Cultural Olympiad
The Open Rehearsal London weekend also sees the beginning of the Cultural Olympiad, which celebrates four years of arts and cultural events in the UK until the 2012 Olympics in London. More fantastic events will be taking place across the capital, making for a great weekend for anyone who loves the arts.

Cultural Olympiad Open Weekend

Open Rehearsal 2008 takes place at venues across London from Friday 26th September – Sunday 28th September 2008, throughout afternoons and evenings. Although most events are free, some require booking. For more information, and full listings of Open Rehearsal events, click on the link below.

Open Rehearsal Official Site

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