Published: 30 Oct 2025
We welcomed 2,237 young people from 49 Primary, Secondary, SEND specialist schools and alternative provisions...
On Wednesday 25 October 2025 in partnership with ABBA Voyage, we hosted an Education Matinee/Schools Concert at this groundbreaking event.
These matinees are created and designed to enable young people to enjoy their first theatrical and now live music/concert experience surrounded by their peers and feel inspired to return. Plus we want to encourage careers in the creative arts particularly amongst those sections of the community that are currently under-represented.
In line with ABBA Voyage‘s mission, we structured our outreach to prioritise the schools that would benefit most. Initially we reached out to schools from the four local boroughs: Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Waltham Forest. Next, we expanded to Arts Council Priority Places, including Barking and Dagenham, Brent, Croydon, Enfield, and Newham. Finally, we extended the invitation to the remaining London boroughs and surrounding areas.
Go Live (along with the support of ABBA Voyage) were able to offer tickets for £10 across the auditorium.
40% average Pupil Premium across the schools that attended (national average is 28%)
45% of schools in attendance were from the four local boroughs
76% of the pupils that attended a concert or live music event for the first time
34% of the pupils that attended have English as an Additional Language (EAL)
59% of the pupils that attended were from a Global Majority background
49% of the pupils that attended have special educational or disability needs
Teacher satisfaction reached a remarkable high, with 90% reporting the concert exceeded expectations and positively impacted student confidence. This positive response was paired with valuable feedback that highlighted opportunities for future enhancement, such as adding a technical masterclass. ABBA Voyage is already exploring this suggestion as a way to maximize both inclusivity and career awareness within the creative sector.
‘They were blown away. We loved the diversity in the band too. It felt like everyone on the trip could see themselves represented in the band.’
‘The awe and wonder of the venue. The entire experience of being in a concert type environment which they would not get the opportunity to do due to the normal expense involved… It was amazing to see the joy on the children’s faces. Children who are not usually as confident or forthcoming in the classroom came to life. So many children said how amazing it was after we left the venue.’
‘For many of them it was their first concert and their first time at an arena- so a real novelty and treat! I think they also enjoyed watching me and the other members of staff dance, laugh and enjoy ourselves – made us seem more human. Its rare that we can enjoy an event that is fun for different generation.’
Huge thanks to the whole ABBA Voyage team for working with us to create this amazing experience.
Accessible and inclusive programmes like this are just not possible without your support.
Donate today to help ensure every child, regardless of background, has the chance to experience the transformative power of live theatre and open doors for the next generation.
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Video: www.chaaustaoglu.com
