Contender Charlie and China Plate present
Run time: 70 minute adaptation and post-show Q&A with cast
Age: Upper KS2 & lower KS3 (Years 5 – 9) Subjects: English, PSHE
The Stage
"The children have had a fantastic introduction to Shakespeare that will hopefully stay with them for the rest of their lives!"
Teacher, Larkrise Primary School, Oxford
By William Shakespeare
Adapted by Nick Walker
Made for 9 – 13 year olds, by the team behind Macbeth – Blood Will Have Blood.
“I genuinely thought I could end the trouble once and for all. But I got in too deep. And it all ended badly. I am the Friar. God forgive me.”
A troubled Friar rushes us through the mutinous streets of Verona, plunging us into a community torn apart by prejudice, conflict and violent crime.
Gripping story-telling, live music and striking visual effects take young audiences on a heart-wrenching journey as they follow Shakespeare’s star crossed lovers towards their tragic end. Guided through Shakespeare’s original text by the Friar, speaking modern English, this is an unforgettable introduction to his devastating love story.
“Every teacher and child completely inspired today by this production of #RomeoAndJuliet. Every day should be a learning experience like this.” – Haselworth Primary School via Twitter
“Some of our lowest prior attainers and children with special needs were able to accurately retell the story and they were extremely enthusiastic.” – Deputy Head, Howes Primary School, Coventry
“It’s a gripping interpretation that gives the classic tale a modern resonance… an introduction to the Bard that will resonate with the lives of youngsters. Contender Charlie and China Plate have created a treasure.” – Pigeon Pair and Me
“Breath-taking; I’m still overwhelmed by the blinding lights and echoing voices of the skilled actors.” – Year 6 pupil
Public shows would also be available.
Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, The Sir Barry Jackson Trust and Backstage Trust.
Photo © The Other Richard
For schools, the production comes with an education package to deepen engagement with the show and its themes beyond the theatrical experiences and extend students’ learning into the classroom.
The package aims to:
Previously this has included a post-show Q&A with the cast (hot-seating session) that explored the motivations of the characters, an interactive online resource and a teacher CPD session.
Free Arts Award Discover and Explore arts logs have been created for this production, they can be found in the Downloads section below.
For further information about this production and our Shakespeare adaptations, please email [email protected]
For schools
We want to ensure that all audience members feel welcome and are able to make the most out of their experience at the theatre. If you would like to discuss particular access or inclusion requirements, including those for special school groups and pupil referral units, please get in touch on [email protected].
Contender Charlie uses storytelling & mythology to enhance & inspire the creative learning of young people.
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© The Other Richard
© The Other Richard
© The Other Richard
© The Other Richard
© The Other Richard
An unforgettable introduction to Shakespeare’s shocking story of ambition, greed and the abuse of power for 9-13 year olds.
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We offer opportunities across the UK through our touring shows for students to be audiences, artists and/or participants, alongside support for teachers through our resources and activities.
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Our Engagement & Participation Producer Andrea, discusses the online resources for Romeo & Juliet - Mad Blood Stirring.
Written by Andrea
