Julia Moskalenko and Stanislav Olshanskyi performing Forest Song

Arts & Entertainment News Wiltshire Magazine

Children’s Matinée Ballet at Hatch House promises magical afternoon of dance

Jamie JonesJuly 8, 20260 Comment0

FAMILIES are being invited to a magical afternoon of dance in the beautiful surroundings of Hatch House this month.

The Children’s Matinée Ballet, which opens celebrations for the acclaimed Ballet Under the Stars held on the 17th Century Wiltshire estate, has been created to introduce young audiences to the magic of ballet.

The programme will include a behind-the-scenes introduction to the magic of theatre, including lighting, music and stagecraft, two professional ballet performances, and a lively finale where children are invited on stage to join in the dancing themselves.

Alongside professional dancers, talented young performers from local ballet schools will also take to the stage, to create an unforgettable celebration of dance and creativity.

Following the performance, families are welcome to stay on for the full director’s dress rehearsal for Ballet Under the Stars and enjoy a picnic in the grounds.

Hosted by James Bamford of Project Dance, the event will offer children and their families a unique opportunity to enjoy professional ballet in a welcoming and interactive setting.

James is an award-winning dancer, choreographer and educator who has built a reputation for creating inspiring dance experiences for young people. Through Project Dance, he has worked extensively to widen access to dance and encourage the next generation of performers.

The event aims to raise awareness and support for The Dicky Buckle Fund, a charity dedicated to nurturing the next generation of dance talent. Through grants, mentoring, performance opportunities and creative development support, the fund helps young dancers, choreographers and designers take the next steps in their artistic careers.

Children’s Matinée Ballet. Picture: Alice Pennefather

The Children’s Matinée Ballet also serves as the family introduction to Ballet Under the Stars, the internationally renowned production presented by Covent Garden Dance Company, which returns to Hatch House from July 24-26. The Covent Garden Dance Company celebrates its 20th anniversary year in 2026, continuing to bring world-class ballet to Wiltshire audiences.

For children already attending dance classes or experiencing ballet for the first time, the Matinée offers a fun, engaging and accessible introduction to the performing arts, with all proceeds going to support The Dicky Buckle Fund.

The Children’s Matinée Ballet at Hatch House, Tisbury will take place on July 23 from 3pm to 4.30pm, with guests invited to arrive from 2.30pm. Refreshments, including drinks, hot dogs and ice cream, will also be available to purchase on the day.

Tickets are priced at £25 for adults, £15 for children aged 10-15 and £10 for children under 10. For families wishing to stay on for the full director’s dress rehearsal of Ballet Under the Stars, running from 5.30pm to 8pm, add-on tickets cost £50 for a family ticket for up to two adults and three children, with individual tickets costing £50 for an adult, £15 for children aged 10-15 and £10 for children under 10.

Tickets can be booked via The Dicky Buckle Fund website and larger group bookings can be arranged by emailing admin@dickybucklefund.com.