Shakespeare - 30 minutes at a time

GEORGE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS - The curtain rises at the Market Community Theatre from 12 to 14 September when some local schools take to the stage for the annual Shakespeare Schools Festival.

Each evening from 18:00 to 20:00, audiences can enjoy performances by two or three schools, with the learners presenting their own 30-minute adaptations of Shakespeare's plays, in any language, in a setting that speaks to them.

Now in its 10th year in George, the festival has become a highlight on the local arts calendar.

Two schools, Heidedal Primary and Tyholora Primary, have participated every year, while Glenwood College Preparatory has been part of the event for the past eight years.

"The festival gives the learners the chance to experience the excitement of live theatre, to commit to a project and to build confidence," says one of the organisers, Heather Stead.

"It is always inspiring to see Shakespeare's timeless themes reimagined through the creativity of today's youth."

Tickets cost R70 and R50, and are available via Webtickets or directly from the George Arts Theatre. - Compiled by Michelle Pienaar

"The festival gives the learners the chance to experience the excitement of live theatre, to commit to a project and to build confidence," says one of the organisers, Heather Stead.