Shakespeare in Love wins the day

The delayed UCS Middle School Production of Shakespeare in Love has today completed a triumphant three-night run at the Lund Theatre.

The cast delivered three outstanding performances, from Monday to Wednesday this week, of a play that offers a fast and farcical insight into the back-stage world Shakespeare may have inhabited. The first night had been scheduled for 15th March until a last-minute Covid-enforced postponement.

Director Sarah Alborn said: “The whole team played their part. It has been a pleasure and privilege to work with these young people.” The 30-strong cast comprised pupils from the three Middle School year groups – Years 9 to 11 – plus female characters from Year 12.

Shakespeare in Love is adapted from the screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard, and according to Miss Alborn it carries an important message: “To hold steadfast in your ambitions and dreams. The qualities of resilience, self-belief and optimism are tested to the extreme and the light that shines through is hope.”

When cast members were struck down by Covid with hours remaining until the original opening night, life really did imitate art. Pupils had to stay positive and embody what also happen to be the school’s learning values of resilience, responsibility, resourcefulness and relationships.

The show went on, rescheduled for this week. UCS Director of Drama, Chris Bhantoa, explained: “With determination and dedication, the cast gave three outstanding performances to delighted audiences. Thanks to the UCS community and parents for their understanding and for embracing this production a week later.”