Shakespeare at the Prep

On Monday 22 February, the Betas at the Prep had a fantastic introduction to the Bard’s work when they were treated to a visit by the Young Shakespeare Company.  The group, which specialises in Shakespeare productions for schools, held the children’s rapt attention for two hours with their engrossing, interactive production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

During the performance, children were invited to act the roles of various characters as well as join in by providing atmospheric sound effects, which they did with enthusiasm, and predicting what happened next.  The pupils were totally absorbed by the story and were roaring with laughter at the antics of Shakespeare’s characters.  For many of the children it was their very first experience of seeing a production of one of Shakespeare’s plays and when asked whether they had enjoyed the play the resounding, collective “yes” proved that the afternoon had been a big success.

The Prep’s English Co-ordinator, Laura Phelps said “The children all had a chance to take part in the action, with some even taking on the starring roles! The Betas had already studied The Tempest earlier this year so this was a great opportunity for them to further explore Shakespeare’s work in a very accessible and interactive way. They were kept well entertained and engaged throughout. A fabulous way to begin the new half term.”

The Young Shakespeare Company is one of the foremost educational theatre companies in the UK, currently performing Shakespeare to over 100,000 young people every year.