King Lear
On Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th December, 2024, the RHS Drama Department once again delighted audiences with a phenomenal performance of Shakespeare’s King Lear. Featuring students from Year 10-13, the Winter production was a stunning testament to our students’ dedication and creative talent.
The entire cast were spectacular, with the students’ love for performing shining through. In particular, James, Year 11, in the role of King Lear, delivered an emotionally charged portrayal that commanded the stage. In addition, Julian showed how hard work can pay off, through his thoughtful performance of Edgar. Other notable performers were Isabel, Year 11, who played Goneril; Jess, Year 11, in the role of Kent; and Max, Year 12, as one of the play’s antagonists, Edmund. For all of these students - and many of the members of the cast - their performances were particularly impressive as they balanced a tough rehearsal schedule with preparing for their GCSEs and A Levels.
The backstage crew, led by Stage Manager, Ava-Pearl, Year 13, ensured the show ran smoothly, and the set, lighting, and sound — all designed by students — were truly impressive. The striking set and dynamic lighting perfectly complemented the drama unfolding onstage, enhancing the mood and atmosphere of this timeless tragedy.
Nicole, Year 10, who played Oswald, told us: “I have loved every minute of being involved in King Lear and getting to know lots of new faces. I do GCSE Drama and it has been wonderful spending so much time with like minded people, who love the technical elements of drama as much as I do. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to improve my own Drama skills in such a fun and rewarding way.”
Meanwhile, Mr Randall, Curriculum Leader for Drama, said of the cast and crew: “I am proud of the bravery, dedication and professionalism of our students. It was like being back in the world of professional theatre and yet ten times more fun, because everyone was working as a team every day. We’ve been rehearsing for at least four hours a week since September, but that doesn’t scratch the surface of the effort that the students have put into the play. They should be so proud of themselves.”
Congratulations to all of the cast on a fantastic set of shows - we cannot wait to see what the next production has in store for us.
Cast: Charlie (Year 10), Harley (Year 10), Jamie (Year 10), Max (Year 10), Nicole (Year 10), Sophia (Year 10), Amy (Year 11), Isabel (Year 11), James (Year 11), Jess (Year 11), Julian (Year 11), Laylah (Year 11), Megan (Year 11), Christian (Year 12), Katie (Year 12), Max (Year 12), Alexia (Year 13), Giselle (Year 13)
Backstage: Abigail (Year 10), Dorian (Year 11), Amber (Year 12), Amelia (Year 12), Aimee (Year 13), Ava-Pearl (Year 13)
