"Some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them". One of the most famous of Shakespeare's lines and certainly of his romantic comedy, Twelfth Night. The Year 6 class truly were thrust into a play and dialogue that was effectively asking them to learn a new language! Despite this, the process started with energy and enthusiasm. There was so much interest in the auditions and the first read-through was full of chuckles; clearly the newly-formed cast were listening and understood the story - great news! 

The story was full of twists and turns (which is typical of Shakespeare), so the adapted script included a group of Narrators, who bridged the gap between actors and audience, helping everyone involved understand the intricacies of the plot better. The cast were so impressive when it came to learning lines too, with some of the lead actors returning after less than 24 hours with large sections of the text already learnt. 

On Friday 16th February, the theatre was packed-out with an audience of pupils and family, waiting to be entertained. Mr Brooks asked the question to all "Who of you here today performed Shakespeare at the age of 10 or 11 years old?" Only the Year 7 and 8 pupils raised their hands, with not a single adult doing so! What a great opportunity for every member of the Year 6 group to be a part of. Mowden ensures that being involved in school productions is compulsory, which means that everyone participates and knows what it feels like to get up and perform to a live audience. In other schools some pupils would opt out of such an opportunity without knowing, in some cases, what they are missing.

Despite some unforeseen challenges at the final hurdle, the cast and crew were rightly proud of their achievements and went into the half-term holidays with their heads held high.