With the aid of a writer from the Victorian era and some books, we conjure forth the great divide between rich and poor that existed during Victoria's reign. Our writer takes us on a journey and we experience the poverty and suffering that many children endured living on the streets. We meet various people like Dr Barnardo and Elizabeth Fry, who try to help the poor and starving. Many children stole food to stay alive, but if you were caught then you would end up in a Magistrates court. What would happen to you then?

Our journey is uplifted by an invitation from our writer to attend a ball. You will need your calling card and an outfit. Everyone is talking about the opening of Crystal Palace and the inventions that lie within. Find out which interesting character you will become and will you be outspoken about the state of society today.

During this workshop the children are involved in the following activities, sweeping chimneys, shining shoes, selling flowers and matches, plus others. At the ball all of the children will have lines to read and some decisions to make. They will all get a chance to attend the ball and dance a Polka. Every child will play a role and get the chance to dress up.