Following in the footsteps of almost forty years of A-level English Literature students, English students in Lower 6 (Year 12) had a brilliant time on the annual trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon just before the half-term break!
The schedule was packed, starting with a ‘Sinister Stratford’ walking tour, where students got their bearings whilst learning about the darker side of Stratford. Over the next two days, students developed their understanding of theatre with a back-stage tour of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and a magical demonstration of theatrical wigs and make-up (who knew Mrs Rowley would make such a convincing pirate?).
We were lucky enough to have a lecture from the wonderful Dr Nick Walton from The Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust, who illuminated Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’ in his inimitable animated style. Evenings were spent at the theatre, enjoying the intense, thought-provoking play ‘Driftwood’ and the riotous, yet chilling, ‘The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui’, where a phenomenal cast, including Mark Gatiss, impressed us all hugely.
Despite obstacles, the legendary tradition of the ‘Stratford Secret’ continued; safe to say, we are already looking forward to planning next year’s trip!
