News Lower School Brings Shakespeare to Life in Magical Open-Air Production 02.07.2026

This year’s Lower School Production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream was a joyful celebration of comedy, creativity and collaboration. It was particularly apt that the two performances – postponed by a week because of the heatwave – were performed in the perfect setting beneath the school’s beautiful outdoor canopy, generously funded by the PTFA. The natural setting certainly sprinkled a little extra fairy dust over the occasion and brought together many different contributions from staff and students across the whole school community. Before the show, ‘a fairy faire’ showcased some of our lower school students’ fairy-themed bakes with all proceeds going to charity, accompanied by beautiful music from a quintet of fantastic musicians, many of whom were also members of our backstage crew! 

Our student assistant directors, Arianna, Anoushka, Aurelia, Una, Etain and Elise, helped to successfully lead the cast in this fast-paced and engaging condensed performance of Shakespeare’s much-loved comedy. The production skilfully brought together the play’s three distinctive worlds – the Athenian court, the enchanted forest and the mechanicals – into a captivating theatrical experience.

One of the wonderful aspects of our Lower School production is that every Year 8 and 9 student is invited to take part, whether or not they want to audition for a leading role. The entire cast worked brilliantly as an ensemble – for example our four Pucks! – delivering energetic and confident performances throughout. Standout performances included Emily as the unforgettable Nick Bottom, while Sabrina, Hailo, Scarlett and Cassia charmed audiences as the four lovers. Zara gave a commanding performance as Oberon, alongside Gigi’s elegant portrayal of Titania.

The evening concluded with a joyful company dance to Daft Punk’s Digital Love, sending audiences home with smiles and perfectly capturing the spirit of this memorable production.