Warwickshire school children perform in the National Shakespeare Schools Festival

On 22 November, Warwickshire schools performed at Warwick Arts Centre as part of the Shakespeare Schools Festival (SSF): the world's largest youth drama festival. The festival itself has 30,000 young people from 1,132 schools involved as either performers, backstage technicians, or student directors. 

Above: Claverdon Primary School performing Romeo and Juliet

Claverdon Primary School, completed their journey with the Shakespeare Schools Festival with a very successful 30 minute production of Romeo and Juliet (using original Shakespearean language). They had an acting cast of 30 with two technical students involved in creating and implementing the lighting effects for their performance. Children and staff worked on the project over several months, allocating some time each week to creating their version of the play.

Rebecca said, "I was really nervous before, but now I would do it all over again. It has boosted my confidence."

Henry said, "It was really inspiring to be given tips by a professional director and actor."

All the staff and children enjoyed being involved in the project, it has helped the children grow closer together in the way they work and interact and all have gained confidence.

Shipston Primary and Brailes C of E Primary performed their version of The Tempest in a joint collaboration. 

Alec, 9 years old from Brailes, who played the lead role of Prospero said, "If we could, I would do that again right now because I had an extraordinary time."

Above: Shipston and Brailes performing The Tempest

Audiences also enjoyed productions of Antony & Cleopatra from Round Oak Special School and A Midsummer Night’s Dream from Shrubland Street Primary.

Round Oak Broad Spectrum School put on a performance that won great praise from resident SSF director Matt who said the skillful use of costumes and lighting reminded him of a Hollywood epic movie. He also commended the use of a filmed extract, a new innovation in his experience of the Shakespeare Schools Festival. The pupils, who ranged in age from 14 to 18, had a wonderful day:

"I had lots of fun and had a great time” Lauren

“I enjoyed the acting warm ups” Connor

Shrubland Street Primary School have participated in the Shakespeare Schools Festival for the past three years using Shakespeare as a focus for the Year 5 English curriculum. Deputy Head Teacher Mr Wright explains 'It gives the children a great opportunity to learn about Shakespeare and get to grips with some of the language. All of the children love the experience of performing at an iconic venue and you certainly get to see a different side of some children'. 

'I just loved working together with my classmates in a different place'  Josh

'All the music and the lights and being on stage was awesome'  Freya

 

Over 1/4 million young people have taken part in Shakespeare Schools Festival since it began 16 years ago. For further information visit: http://www.ssf.uk.com