Once more unto the breach, dear friends! - School’s production of Henry V is a hit
08:26 27 June 2014
Pupils at St Mary’s Primary School performed a unique version of Shakespeare’s Henry V this week.
The pupils tied in the key themes of the Elizabethan play with the commemoration of the beginning of the First World War – with pupils challenged to understand the difference between the two periods.
The production was held on Thursday at the High Barns school, with artist in residence, Antonia Ward, helping children to create the stage.
Head teacher James Hickish said: “We are so grateful to Antonia for inspiring our children with her panoramic set. It has really helped the children focus their performance.
“The children have responded wonderfully to the challenge of learning lines, and song lyrics - some First World War songs are incorporated for Edwardian authenticity - and to performing Elizabethan language in a 20th century setting.
“A particular challenge of this project has been to help the children understand the differences between the different historical periods which we are exploring: the Edwardian period of the First World War; the Elizabethan period of Shakespeare’s time, and the Lancastrian period when Henry was king.
“We think all the children have risen wonderfully to this challenge and are presenting a powerful and moving play.”