On Saturday 14 September, 2024 we were invited to help celebrate NASA's International Observe the Moon Night at an incredibly special day of events held within the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London.
“It was wonderful to see the smiles on people’s faces as they immersed themselves in ‘A Grand Day Out’ in the Planetarium”
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich
On Saturday 14 September, the Royal Observatory in Greenwich staged a brilliant day of events to celebrate the moon.
The day featured music, film, planetarium shows, the opportunity to observe the moon through their telescopes and chat with their inspiring astronomers, clay-modelling at an Aardman self-led 'Claystation' and even the chance to meet Wallace & Gromit in person!
“This was the first time we have delivered a screening in the planetarium accompanied by live musical performance and the event greatly exceeded our expectations” Deputy Head of Astronomy, Royal Observatory
Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out
Our wonderful ensemble of musicians gave four separate shows throughout the day, with Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out screened, as our musicians performed the sound track live in the unique and intimate setting of The Planetarium at The Royal Observatory.
In Nick Park’s first film featuring the famous duo, Wallace & Gromit enjoy a day out with a difference when a quest to find cheese prompts a visit to the moon!
Despite a few hiccups with their homemade rocket, the duo make a successful lunar landing, arriving just in time for lunch.
But a strange, mechanical-being isn’t too happy to see Wallace eating slices of moon cheese…
“We also want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the musicians who brought their respective characters to life on the day. Their enthusiasm and joy were palpable” Deputy Head of Programmes and Outreach
The Performers
Amina Hussain flute
Rachael Clegg oboe
Daniel Bayley clarinet
Ben Hudson bassoon
Naomi Atherton horn
Ben Powell piano
Due to the intimate nature of the venue, six of our world-class musicians brought Julian Nott’s film score to life, in a new orchestration by our Artistic Director, Daniel Whibley. After the performances, the musicians went outside and met the children, and even played some special requests. They were also joined by two surprise guests - Wallace & Gromit!
“You put smiles on so many people’s faces and I’m sure many visitors had an experience they will never forget”Greenwich Observatory Event Management Team
Aardman Claystation
The day also offered the opportunity for visitors to create their own Gromit or Moon-inspired clay figure at a self-led workshop, inspired by Wallace and Gromit on their Grand Day Out! The Claystation was very popular, with lots of children of all ages creating wonderful models!
Our Shows
Carrot Productions now have over 20 different show and show combinations available, from Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep to The Snowman and The Snowman and the Snowdog; from classic fairy tales to smaller-scale education shows - and even an online package for educational settings.
Our shows are available to hire - either as a complete package with our musicians performing, or we provide the music scores, films & showbooks for other orchestras to stage the shows themselves. Bespoke packages to suit most budgets are on offer.
Why not book a show for your venue, company, event, school or orchestra?
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