YOUNG thespians are preparing to step into the limelight on the RSC stage in Stratford after securing roles in the forthcoming production of Romeo & Juliet.
The young actors, aged 12 to 18, all attend schools in the RSC’s Associate Schools programme – which introduces and helps young people engage with the work of Shakespeare – or work in a partnership with the world-famous company.
In teams of four they will perform each night in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre sharing the role of the Chorus with the professional cast.
Director Erica Whyman said: “We were bowled over by the impact our tour of A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream: A Play for the Nation had on the young people who took part and those who came to watch as we traversed the UK. I want to build on that hugely positive experience, as we stage Romeo and Juliet, opening up a dialogue with young people in schools in ways we have never before been able to do.
“By inviting these young people to join us on stage I want to celebrate the diverse talent of the UK and highlight the revolutionary heart of this most timeless love story.”
Those from schools in the district include Adam Anderson, 13, Klaudia Budzinski, 13, Levi Simms, 13, Zoha Imtiaz, 14 (Campion); Lara Hobden, 14, Ben Shuttlewood, 15 (Myton).
Romeo & Juliet runs from April 21 to September 21.
Visit www.rsc.org.uk for tickets and further details.
