Cowes Enterprise College students have performed in a Royal Shakespeare Company production after a year-long collaboration with schools across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
The performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream took place at HSDC South Downs on Thursday 26th June, marking the culmination of the school’s involvement in the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), Mayflower Theatre and HSDC Playmaking Festival.
Cowes Enterprise College is the only secondary school on the Isle of Wight to be part of the RSC Associate Schools Cluster, which brings together 11 schools and colleges from across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
The partnership has provided students and staff with professional workshops, collaborative rehearsals and performance opportunities designed to bring Shakespeare’s work to life in engaging and accessible ways.
Despite soaring temperatures on one of the hottest days of the year, 23 students travelled to HSDC South Downs to perform alongside young people from across the region in a specially adapted production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
The school says the students showed exceptional commitment, creativity and professionalism throughout the day, delivering an energetic performance following months of preparation.
A special mention has also been given to sixth form student Evie, who supported the production as Assistant Director and Costume Designer as part of her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award volunteering, helping to develop both the performance and her own leadership and creative skills.
The college has thanked the Mayflower Theatre for providing a transport grant, which funded complimentary coach travel to and from the Red Jet terminal, enabling the students to take part.
“At Cowes Enterprise College, we are committed to providing enriching experiences that allow every student to discover and develop their talents.
“This collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company has been a fantastic opportunity, and our students embraced every moment with confidence, creativity and determination.”
Vicky Wells, Vice Principal at Cowes Enterprise College, said the experience had helped students develop confidence, teamwork and lasting memories alongside their theatrical skills.
