King Lear production impresses Extension and Year 13 English Literature students

Acted and directed by Michael Hurst (who also gave a talk to Year 10 students earlier in the term), Auckland Theatre Company’s production of the play did not disappoint with its stellar cast and striking visual effects. Students were reminded of the relevancy of this play and how important it still is to “Speak what we feel, not what we ought to say”.

The production’s thoughtful use of lighting, mirrors and traverse staging enabled the performers to truly “hold a mirror up to nature”. After the onstage thunderstorm, complete with falling rain, and a series of violent assaults, it was hard not to be moved by the final death scene. Students described the production as “unique”, “mesmerising” and “incredibly compelling”.

As part of the Extension Studies programme, led by Mrs McDougall, the students had an opportunity that was both curriculum centred, and highly inspiring. The students are now able to incorporate the specifics of the performance into their responses and create a rich argument about the aspects of theatre as a result.

Thank you to the Macleans College’s Extension Studies budget which enabled these four classes to attend this performance for free and experience Shakespeare exactly as it should be seen.