May 2003
 
SHAKESPEARE 4 KIDZ LIVE!
 
On 30 March I was invited to the Richmond Theatre to watch the live recording of Shakespeare 4 Kidz A Midsummer Night's Dream. In association with their media partners Tangent Films, Shakespeare 4 Kidz is producing video and DVD versions of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' under the label 'Shakespeare 4 Kidz Live!' These will be available in 2003 directly from the company and selected retail outlets nationwide.

Although the audience consisted mainly of adults, they enjoyed the show just as much as the audience of schoolchildren at the production I reviewed at the Dorking Halls recently. It was a wonderful event. Before the play Julian Chenery (Chief Executive Director) took to the stage to explain the filming process and to thank all the people (including their long suffering coach driver) who'd helped make their recent tour such a success.

Despite being the end of their tour, the actors performed magnificently, the costumes were sumptuous and the evening was true to the play - magical.

Following my article entitles "Great Expectations" (March issue), in which I expressed my disappointment with a workshop for children at London's Globe Theatre, I've been informed that I am not alone in my opinion. Some visiting American schools have been so disappointed with Globe Theatre Education that Shakespeare 4 Kidz has been taking Shakespeare workshops for US schools in central London. Keep up the good work Julian!

MORAG THORPE