Sir Scallywag brings classical music to Sheffield's young audience

Based on the Sir Scallywag book by Giles Andreae, the production by Music in the Round is brought to the Crucible stage on Saturday morning, and will be performed by Ensemble 360 with narrator Polly Ives.

The story is explored from all angles, explained Polly, who has been helping to make classical music accessible and enjoyable for everyone for 14 years, in a variety of roles but currently as concert presenter and narrator.

“We aim to try and fill the massive gap in the market for classical music with a unique way of presenting that fully involves young audiences so that they meaningfully engage with the music,” she added.

When they are not forced to just sit and listen to a trumpet - but are shown how it works, children enjoy themselves so much more, said Polly. “Speech and language development through music is very successful, and the results of work to help children with an elevated risk of speech delay are really clear. Music and literacy are stongly linked.”

Families can be put off the idea of classical music, thinking young children will fidget and be bored, but the Music in the Round’s pioneering approach is fun and absorbing. Children can play with the music at home too using available resources.

So storytelling, image projections, catchy songs and irreverent humour all forms part of the lively Stinky Bottom production with children’s composer in residence Paul Rissman.

Sir Scallywag will also be in Doncaster Cast on April 16, and due to the popularity of the concerts aimed at three to eight-year olds, it is advised to book. Free packs from the Music in the Round website enable youngsters to learn songs before the performance.