This week myself and Mrs Simpson took a coachload of eager Y10 Literature students to see a new production of Macbeth at the Bolton Octagon theatre. 

 

Some of our students were surprised by the modern, militaristic vision of Shakespeare’s tragedy they were confronted with, though many were impressed by the snarling madness of the lead actor, Oliver Alvin‑Wilson, who gave Macbeth a simmering physical violence, which erupted excitingly in the final fight sequence against Daniel Poyser’s Banquo. “Hell is murky” – but so was the set: shrouded in an atmosphere thick with tension and haze. Students were interested to note how the central witch was also cast as a servant and attendant in the Macbeth household, frequently watching over and monitoring the downfall of her selected puppet. So many interesting choices…

 

Despite the “deep and dark” staging, the students were pure sunshine; they demonstrated beautiful behaviour, impeccable manners, good humour and cheerful enthusiasm throughout their little jaunt out of school! We were so proud to be their teachers for the day! We hope they enjoyed themselves very much.

 

Ms C Spencer-Cruise