St Ives drama production

St Ives Drama master Melanie Wheatley recounts the resounding success of this ambitious interpretation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.

 

During August, St Ives Preparatory School brought to life a reimagined production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night (adapted by Marieka Peterson Greene), set in the Chihuahuan Desert, Arizona in 1875. In true Grammar style this production reinvented the tale with an innovative set, lighting, and costume design.

This amazing production was performed over two nights – Friday 12 and Saturday 13 of August. Twenty-four boys were involved in the show, including cast and backstage crew. Rehearsals progressed during Terms II and III, with many weeks staging the acting scenes and practising movement around the set.

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All boys involved were fantastic, performing with confidence, energy and professionalism and the result was spectacular! The boys didn’t miss a beat, and judging by the audience’s response, they provided a great night’s entertainment for young and old. The costumes, set, make-up and lighting were superb, outshone only by the brilliant acting of the boys on stage.

I will always remember this show and all of the boys who dedicated their time, energy and talent to making it so special. My thanks also goes to Tonya Grelis without whom this production would have been possible. Special thanks also to the production team and to all of the parents, teachers and staff who donated their time and expertise to the production. It was a very rewarding journey.

The video below captures some highlights of this energetic production