On Monday 30 June, the first day of Shine week, over 170 children from 9 schools across the country took to the stage at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford upon Avon to perform their own plays inspired by Shakespeare.

Comedian and TV presenter Hardeep Singh Kohli hosted the celebration, and actress Michelle Gomez took time out from starring in the current production to rehearse with the children.

Jacqui O’Hanlon, the RSC’s Director of Education said:
“We are delighted that our Regional Schools Celebration is helping to launch Shine… Shine week celebrates a wide range of activities that are happening all year round in schools around the country but which often go unnoticed.

"Today we are welcoming schools from nine different regions to perform on the Courtyard Theatre stage. We have worked with these teachers and students for the last two years, and I know that they are both thrilled and scared in equal measure at the prospect of performing their work on a professional stage. However, Shine week isn’t just about performance. There are a host of activities happening around the country from drama and dance to filmmaking and cooking – and everything in between. It’s great to be part of a week-long event that Shines a light on the whole range of talents that young people have.”

Photos: Alan Fletcher