DRAMATIC pupils from Stratford schools are preparing to tread the boards of a world famous theatre in their home town.
Youngsters from 11 schools, together with students from Stratford College, will perform on the Swan Theatre stage as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s (RSC) annual schools’ Playmaking Festival.
In total 296 young actors from the town will come together to present their interpretations of Shakespeare’s famous tale of two star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, on On 11 and 12 July,
The primary, secondary and FE pupils are all aged between five and 18, and include two Shakespeare Ambassadors from Stratford College who will help lead and direct the students.
The participating schools are Shottery St Andrew’s Primary, The Willlows Primary, Bishopton Primary, Stratford College, Stratford Girls Grammar, St Gregory’s Primary, Alveston Primary, Bridgetown Primary, Stratford-upon-Avon Primary, KES, and Stratford High.
In preparation for the festival, each group has been working with director and RSC education associate practitioner Alex Thorpe.
They will perform their scenes on stage with RSC actor Eloise Secker in front of an audience of parents, friends and other pupils and students.
The performances are part of the RSC’s annual Playmaking Festival and will not be open to members of the public.
Jacqui O’Hanlon, RSC education director, said: “We are delighted to be working with our Stratford school community on this festival of work which has Romeo and Juliet at its heart and gives children the chance to share their performance with friends and families.
“We know that work like this can be incredibly special for all involved, creating memories for children, staff and audiences that last a lifetime.
“We want to support our Stratford community to develop a deep ownership of both Shakespeare’s work and their local theatre – the Royal Shakespeare Company.”
Visit www.rsc.org.uk/education for further details.
