March 11th 2026
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
On Monday evening the Year 7 and 8 cast members of our upcoming Seniors’ Production headed to the Bristol Old Vic to see the Globe Theatre's touring production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. With our own four-night run starting next week, this was the perfect time for the boys to see a professional interpretation of the very same story they have been rehearsing since before Christmas.
The production was a modern retelling featuring a reduced cast of only nine actors which explored some of the darker themes to those normally associated with 'Dream'. It was fascinating to watch the actors step into multiple roles throughout the play, and it gave our pupils plenty of food for thought regarding their own character work. Nick Bottom was a particular highlight, winning everyone over with his audience interaction, while Puck’s portrayal as an other-worldly spirit was truly memorable.
Seeing the play live really helped the boys to see their own lines performed in context. It also gave them a fantastic sense of the physical choices professional actors make to bring Shakespeare’s words to life on stage. It was lovely to hear so many enthusiastic conversations during the interval as the boys compared their own ideas to how the cast had interpreted the script! Although it was a late return to school, the experience was well worth it, and I’m sure it will help to add an extra spark in our own performances next week.
A huge thank you must go to the accompanying staff who gave up their evening to make this trip possible. Their support ensured the boys had a seamless and inspiring experience that will undoubtedly pay off when the curtain rises for our own production!
