The Senior School production of Richard II took place last week, a true tour de force. One of Shakespeare’s less familiar works, the play was presented in an accessible manner while retaining complexity and ambition.

Focused and absorbing performances from the pupils, particularly the leads Tilly Thomson and Bea Titcombe, engaged audiences, with children as young as eight among them. With professional costumes and lighting, the production had a finesse, which elevated the whole experience. Spine-tingling solo singing from sixth former Charlotte Collis-Smith added to the atmosphere and enhanced the play.

A parent commented: “The opening funeral scene captured the audience’s attention immediately and we were all engaged from the first moment.

“Charlotte’s voice is quite breathtaking and mixing music with Shakespeare was a stroke of brilliance – a very modern approach to a less well-known play. I am always impressed by Stonar’s dramatic productions but tonight, being a less frequently performed play done in such an original way, just seemed that bit more special.”

The school’s drama department, praised as ‘vibrant’ in the recent Good Schools Guide report puts on a major production every year.

All Senior School pupils from Year 7 upwards have the opportunity to be involved in the production, either performing or on the technical side.

“The cast took a very professional approach to the play, treating it with serious commitment. They clearly got a lot out of it and it is very satisfying to see their developing love of Shakespeare,” commented Nic Proud, head of drama.