Drama Pupils Experience Shakespeare’s ‘Pericles’ at the RSC
“O you gods! Why do you make us love your goodly gifts, and snatch them straight away?”
Last Wednesday evening, the Drama Department took pupils to see a live theatre performance for the GCSE and A Level examination groups. At 5.30pm, 48 pupils boarded the coach and set off for the RSC in Stratford upon Avon to watch ‘Pericles’. This play is one of William Shakespeare’s lesser-known ones and is thought to have been written in collaboration with George Wilkins. ‘Pericles’ is described as a tale of love, hope, and miracles. It follows the Prince of Tyre on his journeys sailing around many lands.
Set on the Swan Theatre’s beautiful wooden thrust stage and adorned with the simplistic set of ropes and lights, the actors (many of whom were experiencing their RSC debut) were superb in their characterisation, playing multiple roles and incredible physical scenes, all accompanied beautifully by the live RSC band. ‘Pericles’ was played by Alfred Enoch, who many will remember for his roles in the ‘Harry Potter’ films and was superb in his portrayal of the prince. It was an incredible evening, and our Drama pupils thoroughly enjoyed the production and were enthusiastic in their discussions about key moments in the play that will aid them in their Live Theatre Responses.
Mrs Jilly Witcomb, Director of Drama