Primary Shakespeare
Hamlet
For over 30 years the Orange Tree Theatre’s Primary Shakespeare programme has introduced tens of thousands of young people to the magic of Shakespeare and live theatre.
We are delighted to announce Hamlet as our production for 2024.
- What is Primary Shakespeare?
Designed for Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6), Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy is brought to life in a fast-paced, interactive production.
Each class’s experience includes:
1. Two-hour workshop in your school ahead of the show
- Get to know the characters
- Learn the story and explore key themes
- Meet one of the actors
- Get ready to be actively involved in the show!
2. One-hour performance at the Orange Tree Theatre
- Interactive production involving the whole audience
- A fun, dynamic experience of Shakespeare
- A memorable early trip to the theatre
Booking is now open for this year!
Dates:
Workshops run from w/c 13 May (excluding w/c 27 May half term week)
Performances begin in w/c 3 June and finish on 5 July, workshops continue through this period as well
To book or if you have any questions, contact Community Director Francesca Ellis at francesca.ellis@orangetreetheatre.co.uk
Find out what participating teachers have said about Primary Shakespeare:
- “Orange Tree Theatre Primary Shakespeare will always be a priority for us in terms of educational visits and experiences.” Nelson Primary School
- “Another super year inspiring our pupils not to be daunted by studying Shakespeare texts now or in the future” Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle
- “Wow! What a show. The children are still talking about it. The mix of audience interaction/participation, the clever use of props and costume as character signifiers and the beautiful use of the space made the play come alive. Every child could tell me an accurate retelling of the story, they absolutely loved it and want more Shakespeare.” Home Education Group
- “It was completely fantastic. The production had been created in such a way as to allow complete accessibility to Shakespeare’s language, the character and plot. It was extremely well acted, and I think probably the most enjoyable Shakespeare I’ve ever seen.” Barnes Primary School
With thanks to the Backstage Trust for their support of this project, and to the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, RLPC and the Haskel Family Foundation for their support of all OT Community projects.
Merchant of Venice (2018) production photo by Robert Day
Schools
Classes
