A CATHEDRAL is running a children’s opera school during the Easter holiday.

The Durham Cathedral music outreach programme is open to young singers aged eight to 18 who are quick to learn music and happy singing either in a chorus or as soloists.

Anyone wanting to sing a solo will have the chance to do so.

Youngsters will perform a new opera based on real life events in Paris, France, last year.

The story follows slick young Parisian professionals who by night repair buildings left to go to ruin by the authorities.

A Cathedral spokeswoman said: "It is a true story, despite its humour, one of those which restores one’s faith in humanity.

"We are looking for singers who enjoy taking on different characters, particularly trendy streetwise young professionals - latter day Robin Hoods."

Rehearsals will be held in The Chorister School, Durham, from April 6 to 9, from 9.30am to 12.30pm, with a dress rehearsal at Durham School on Saturday, April 10, at 9.30am.

The performance will be in Durham School’s Luce Theatre on Saturday, April 10, at 2.30pm.

The cost of the course is £60 per child. For more information and an application form, call Durham Cathedral’s outreach office on 0191-384-0433.