YOUNGSTERS in East Renfrewshire will have the chance to perform opera later this year.

Scottish Opera’s Primary Schools Tour has hit the road and will be arriving at Cross Arthurlie Primary, in Barrhead, on May 8 and Netherlee Primary on October 23.

The tour will give little ones the chance to take part in an interactive musical experience rehearsing and performing The Dragon of the Western Sea, which follows the story of 14th century Chinese commander Admiral Zheng.

Pupils in primary five, six and seven will learn the words and songs in their own classrooms and then work with the Scottish Opera team to prepare for a performance in front of classmates, friends and family.

Jane Davidson, Scottish Opera’s director of education and outreach, said: “The composer and librettist were inspired by this real life story to create a dramatic tale of adventure on the high seas.

“The plot gives us a wonderful opportunity to introduce Scottish primary pupils to a different perspective on the age of discovery.”