FISH and chip giants Harry Ramsden's are helping to bring the magic of opera to deaf and hearing-impaired youngsters at a Leeds school.

The Guiseley-based company has teamed up with Opera North to provide a £5,000 three-day practical course at Allerton Grange School.

Workshops began yesterday (Wed), when 25 hearing-impaired young people will join with Opera North's project team to develop their responses to the ideas and music of opera.

They will culminate in a shared production of Carmen.

Opera North regularly work with the deaf community as there are many aspects of opera which hearing-impaired people can enjoy.

Harry Ramsden's restaurant at White Cross in Guiseley has often been the home of 'opera and chips' night, bringing opera to the community.

Bob Acrey, marketing manager, said: "At its most basic, opera is an aural experience, but it's also a visual and an emotional art form, it's a medium that everyone can share.

"This project will enable up to 30 deaf and hearing-impaired youngsters to share the magic that is opera."

l Harry Ramsden's next 'opera and chips' night takes place at the White Cross restaurant on February 8. For further details telephone (01943) 874641.

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