RABBLE Theatre celebrated the twinning of Reading and Düsseldorf with a theatre education exchange this weekend.

The partnership, involving the Max-Planck-Gymnasium and English Theatre Dusseldorf, is part of RABBLE Theatre's ongoing efforts to engage young people in the arts.

For 13 years, the education programme has attracted youngsters from across Berkshire, and now, German students joined the RABBLE Young Company for a special weekend event.

The exchange aimed to foster stronger relations between the two towns.

Hannah Smith, head of education at RABBLE Theatre, expressed her excitement about the initiative.

She said: "We’re really excited that our young company members are experiencing such a special, international event.

"Partnering with our friends in Düsseldorf offers an amazing opportunity for students to broaden horizons, which is precisely what RABBLE Young Company aims to do.

"This will help our young people develop voices that are powerful, well-informed, and considerate of a bigger picture."

The exchange will see students exploring similarities and differences between the UK and Germany, from food preferences to international relations.

The staff at RABBLE aim to teach both theatre and life skills.

Rosie Thorpe, artistic director at English Theatre Dusseldorf, is equally enthusiastic about the project.

She said: "English Theatre Dusseldorf is thrilled to be involved in this exciting cultural, theatrical exchange between the two twin towns.

"Many of the students and teachers of the Max-Planck-Gymnasium, Düsseldorf have never been to Reading before, and so to be able to take part in such a workshop, bringing international minds and perspectives together, will not only be thought-provoking but also inspiring.

"We are so happy to be able to support this exchange and thank all our sponsors for helping to make this happen."

During the exchange, students will be able to learn about the similarities and differences between the two towns and wider nations, from popular snacks right through to relations with other countries in and outside Europe.

The RABBLE Theatre had arranged numerous events for their students, and encourage newcomers to join the Young Company.

The theatre has worked since 2012 to become a nationally acclaimed organisation, known for the quality of its productions, the impact of its community education and career development programmes.

The theatre was established to improve lives, champion women and develop pride within the community.