These two shows, one featuring the very worst of the Tudors and the other showing how vile the Victorians could be, are a far cry from the history books (and might at one time have made history teachers cry).
A new £90,000 scheme run by Norwich Theatre Royal is helping many more primary school children in Norfolk to access to live performances.
One of the most prominent figures in the 20th century theatre, Bertolt Brecht led the way for modern political satire and alternative comedy.
The Sewell Barn Theatre in Norwich is poised to open its doors for its latest production, Sons and Lovers, this week.
Last autumn, Norwich youth venue The Garage, in Chapelfield, launched its first season of professional performance for young people. Entitled Curtain Up, it proved to be a major success and they are following it up this month with a week-long festival of theatre.