The green’s a stage for young Shakespearean players

Pupils from Kanes Hill and Hightown Primary Schools rehearse for their production of Hamlet which they performed to the local community on Hinkler Green.

Pupils from Kanes Hill and Hightown Primary Schools rehearse for their production of Hamlet which they performed to the local community on Hinkler Green.

Children from two Southampton primary schools made a sonnet and dance about Shakespeare in an outdoor performance of Hamlet.

The youngsters of Kanes Hill and Hightown primary schools performed this most famous of plays on Hinkler Green to a packed audience.

And thankfully the weather was very kind so there was no question of ‘to be or not to be.’

Kanes Hill headteacher Kirsten Buist, said: “The children staged an absolutely outstanding performance and everyone who had the privilege to be there were spellbound.

“This is now the third year in a row we have taken part in the Streetspeare Project, which aims to enhance children’s understanding of Shakespeare through performance.

“It’s a real family affair as we not only welcome parents and friends to watch but we also welcome back former students to take part as well.

“The play would also have not been possible without the hard work and dedication of Hightown Year 6 teacher Anna Pink.”

Thirty Year 5 and 6 pupils from across both schools were involved in the production, including four former students who are now at secondary school.

Another former Hightown student who is now at college, Bethany Thomas, took on the role of assistant director.

And taking on the title role of Hamlet – probably the most sought after role for any actor –was former Kanes Hill student Jeremy Crandon who now attends The Gregg School.

Other principal roles were given to Kanes Hill’s Abi Clark who took on the role of Ghost, Hightown’s Milana Gerus who played Ophelia, former Kanes Hill pupil and Abi’s sister Beth Clark who was Polonios, former Kanes Hill pupil Amy Bowen played Horatio and Kanes Hill’s Poppy Hawkins was Gertrude.

The Streetspeare Project is run by theatre company, Fluid Motion. Its creative director, Leigh Johnston, said: “Sometimes you forget just how young these children are. To watch them learn, understand and perform something as complex as Hamlet is a true inspiration.”

Kanes Hill and Hightown primary schools are both based in the Thornhill area of Southampton and members of the Hinkler Academies Trust.

 

 

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