Sixth Form drama students from Kettering Science Academy visited Stratford-upon-Avon over the weekend to watch a production of ‘The Tempest’, listen to speeches and participate in Shakespeare related workshops.

On arrival students attended the local theatre to listen to a talk from the Associate Director and two performers from the production 'Sarah Impey' and Oliver Towse'.

Mrs Amanda Doherty said ‘It was so inspiring and one of the best talks I have ever attended. They covered rehearsal methods, directors’ decisions and the impact on the final outcomes, explanations of how the productions pioneering technical elements worked in reality as well as a practical master class from the two actors.’

The students then visited Shakespeare's Birthplace and had the opportunity to see the town houses he lived in. They watched more Shakespeare performances, made their own ruffs, insulted each other using Shakespearian quotes, walked round the gardens and had a tour of Hall's Croft.

Students then enjoyed dinner at Pizza Express before heading back to theatre to watch RSC’s evening performance of ‘The Tempest’. 

Mrs Doherty said ‘we arranged to see ‘The Tempest’ because part of the written drama exam requires students to write about a production they have seen. Year 12 are expected to write a live theatre review while Year 13 are expected to consider theatre history in light of the performance they have seen. I am sure students will now be able to write all about the performance with confidence.

‘There was phenomenal imagery with projections and avatars ensued complimenting the live action unfolding before us. The normally unseen 'mask' was certainly heard in full operatic force and seen in fluorescent madness. The characters beguiled the audience and the magical themes reached out and encapsulated each and every one of us. It was a truly wonderful production that our students thoroughly enjoyed. ‘