Our trip to The Mill at Sonning proved a wonderful way to show the children all the different aspects of a working theatre.

We were shown around by the general manager who has worked at the theatre for 26 years! First the children saw the huge water wheel going round and creating wonderful patterns in the river below. The theatre generates its own electricity from this working wheel.

Next was the auditorium. On stage were some small 3D scenery boxes which a team use to make the sets. We were also shown a wide range of very realistic stage plastic food. The children enjoyed handling it and having a close look at it. A few of the children danced on the stage which they loved! We watched and listened to various lighting and musical effects.

We then went back stage and saw a dressing room with the mirror lights on. Costumes hung on a rail and the walls were covered with good luck or rather 'break a leg!' cards.

Next came the workshop. The carpenter there compared piecing a set together to making a jigsaw which fascinated the children.

We finished our tour with a well earned drink and biscuit.

It was so rewarding to see the childrens' enthusiasm on the trip - hopefully we have some budding actors for future Dolphin School productions!