Roman empire explore in school holiday activities

Charlie, Kiahna  TBW Newsgroup
ROMAN RULE: Charlie and Kiahna Little take advantage of the Roman costumes at the Riddoch and Main Corner Complex.
Charlie, Kiahna TBW Newsgroup
ROMAN RULE: Charlie and Kiahna Little take advantage of the Roman costumes at the Riddoch and Main Corner Complex.

THE empire that shaped the world is helping transform Limestone Coast children’s perspective this school holidays with a host of ancient Roman themed activities on offer at the Riddoch Art Gallery.

The gallery has partnered with Mount Gambier Library and the Main Corner Complex to deliver a school holiday program in conjunction with the coveted Ancient Rome: The Empire that Shaped the World exhibition.

Kicking off this week, the hands-on activities include crafting mini volcanoes, Colosseum models, clay masks and Roman costume competitions.

“The Ancient Rome exhibition has presented an ideal occasion to collaborate with the team at the library to deliver this program,” The Riddoch and Main Corner Complex coordinator Talie Teakle said.

“Particularly as we are the only gallery in South Australia to have the opportunity to host the amazing exhibition.”

Library programs team leader Kristi Leamey said the one-of-a-kind activities were a great way to entertain and educate children during the school holidays.

“If you are looking for something unique and fun to keep the children entertained these holidays, council is coordinating a host of activities where children can learn through play,” Ms Leamey said.

“Whether you like making pizzas or Colosseums, playing gladiator games or craft activities, there’ll be something that will spark your creativity and awaken the Roman in you.”

With the exhibition in town until November 10, the Riddoch and Main Corner Complex is also hosting activities for adults for the next six weeks.

Events include screenings of Monty Python’s Life of Brian, Italian cooking masterclasses with chef Ian Perry, toga life drawing and clay workshops.

The Ancient Rome exhibition features more than 200 exhibits including artefacts, catapults, frescoes, armour, weapons and busts reconstructed from ancient Roman records.