A new programme, which has been designed to enhance the experience of performances and screenings for theatre-goers, will start this month.

The Up Stage programme at the Marina Theatre will link closely to the diverse range of shows on offer – beginning with 'A Beginners Guide to Opera: Tosca' on Tuesday, September 19.

Professional singer and performer Charlotte Polland will lead people through a brief history of opera and explore the skill and techniques involved.

The workshop session, which takes place at Stella Maris church hall, is priced at £15 and will run from 2pm to 4pm for people over 18 and from 4.30pm to 6pm for those aged between nine and 18.

Those booking a place on the workshop can also buy a ticket for the live performance of Tosca by the Russian State Opera, at 7.30pm on September 19, for just £20.

Further workshops, including Understanding Hamlet on Friday, October 5 and Understanding Coriolanus on Wednesday, October 11, will be run by Shakespeare expert Simon Bridge. The sessions, running from 2pm to 5pm, are aimed at over 18s, and are priced at £15. They also include a ticket for the corresponding screenings at 7pm on the same day.

A Beginners Guide to Ballet: The Nutcracker will take place on Friday, October 13. Professional dancer and performer Lizzie Stanley will lead this introduction to the history and style of ballet at the Stella Maris church hall. The workshops – costing £15 – take place between 2pm and 4pm for over 18s and from 4.30pm to 6pm for those aged between nine and 18. People can also book to see the live performance of The Nutcracker by the Russian National Ballet at 7.30pm on October 13 for just £20.

Will Isgrove, Head of Young People and Outreach at the Marina Theatre, said: 'We are delighted to announce these exciting activities to making potentially complex or inaccessible arts forms as open as possible – and to break down any negative perceptions people may have. We want to help people delve into new and exciting cultural and artistic avenues – led by experienced and talented industry professionals. The arts are for everybody and we hope this programme will help deepen the understanding and appreciation.'

Places on the workshops are limited to 20 spaces, so book early via the box office on 01502 533200 to avoid disappointment.