A GROUP of visually impaired students were given the chance to experience the sounds of classic ballet La Traviata.

The 12-strong group from Henshaws College in Harrogate visited Leeds Grand Theatre.

They had front row seats, allowing them to hear everything from the thunderous noise of the orchestra to the gentle tapping of the dancers' ballet shoes on the stage.

The visit also included a special workshop and a touch tour of the stage, courtesy of The Northern Ballet Theatre.

The students had the opportunity to try out some ballet moves and feel the scenery and props, all as the dancers warmed up around them.

Second-year Henshaws student James Butcher said: "The day was amazing. We tried some ballet and even went on stage.

"But my favourite part was the music - it was incredible."

Henshaws student volunteer co-ordinator, Asha Munn said: "This was such an unusual experience for the students, and it was great to see them learning so much.

"They were able to feel the different types of ballet shoes and mimic the movement using their hands, and particularly enjoyed doing some barre work with the professional dancers."