We are thrilled to share the success of our Summer Shakespeare Festival, a groundbreaking project that brought together the creative forces of Rose Bruford (North), Undersong Productions and Bolton School. Made possible by generous funding from the Arts Council, this collaborative endeavour aimed to create an aspirational vertical learning experience, fostering performance skills exchange and inspiration across different age groups, from primary school to undergraduate students.
The festival was a true celebration of the Bard's timeless works and its impact was wide-ranging. As part of the project, our junior schools, Park Road and Hesketh House, actively participated in engaging workshops with Old Boy and actor, Charlie Derrar, immersing themselves in the enchanting world of Shakespeare. These sessions not only deepened their understanding of the plays but also sparked their creativity and passion for the dramatic arts.
A Senior Ensemble, comprised of talented pupils from Year 7 to 12, also took part in the festival led by Old Girl and director Collette Murray. These young actors showcased their extraordinary skills as they shared the stage with Rose Bruford actors in captivating performances of both "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and "The Tempest", directed by Collette Murray and Chris Penney on behalf of Rose Bruford, respectively. The magic of Shakespeare's words were brought alive for Year 3 and 4 pupils during the school day and evening audiences of the casts' families and friends.
Our festival went beyond the boundaries of Bolton School, embracing a wider community of primary schools from across Bolton. We were delighted to welcome pupils and staff from St John the Evangelist, ESSA Academy, The Oaks, Walmsley, Johnson Fold and St Michael's, enriching their cultural experiences through exposure to Shakespeare's masterpieces. Thomasson Memorial School joined us for a BSL interpreted show, ensuring that the beauty of the performances could be enjoyed by all in our local community.
The impact of this unique project will extend far beyond the festival itself. In September, our partnering schools will receive follow-up workshops led by the actors who performed in the shows. These workshops will deepen the pupils' understanding and appreciation of the theatrical process, giving them an opportunity to learn from professionals who brought the characters to life on stage. In addition, the schools will have access to wrap-around digital resources, including rehearsal room video diaries from Rose Bruford rehearsals, providing valuable insights into the creative journey.
We firmly believe that this project is a pioneering initiative in intergenerational learning. It has bridged gaps between age groups, encouraging a vibrant exchange of ideas and skills. We hope that the case study arising from the project will be a useful resource and inspiration to other educational institutions.
The setting for our performances added an enchanting touch to the festival. The shows took place in an outdoor theatre dome, with the natural beauty of our school woodland serving as a backdrop and an extension of the stage. It was a truly immersive experience, connecting the audience with the essence of Shakespeare's world and enhancing the magic of the performances.
The Summer Shakespeare Festival has been an incredible journey, filled with creativity, learning, and shared experiences. We extend gratitude to Rose Bruford (North), Undersong Productions, and Arts Council England for their support and collaboration. We also commend the dedication and talent of all the students, actors, and educators involved, as they have made this project an extraordinary experience.
Miss Naomi Lord, Bolton School's Foundation Director of Creative Learning
Photos by Chris Payne.
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