QPHS magazine - Spring Term 2026 - Magazine - Page 8
A bold twist on a Classic
On the 12th and 20th March, almost
two hundred students visited
Storyhouse, Chester to experience a
bold and spectacular new production
of Shakespeare9s Macbeth.
Accompanied by their Head of Year,
and members of the English team,
students enjoyed a thrilling
interpretation of the Bard9s iconic
tragedy.
This inventive production, directed
by Jamie Sophia Fletcher, stayed
true to Shakespeare9s original
language while embracing neon,
bright costumes, striking lighting and
bursts of contemporary music. The
result was a fresh, modern take that
brought the familiar story of
ambition, power and downfall to life
in a vivid and unexpected way.
Instead of elaborate sets, the
performance used projected imagery
across the back wall to create
atmosphere and a strong sense of
place. This minimalist approach
allowed the actors and their powerful
delivery to take centre stage.
One Year 10 student summed it up
perfectly: “The acting was incredible,
the performance was inspiring, and in
parts it was shocking!=
Year 11 students enjoyed the show
the following week which was a wellearned treat after an intense two
weeks of mock exams.
While students study Macbeth as
part of GCSE English Literature,
seeing it performed live offered a
whole new depth of understanding.
The production9s dynamic style
helped students connect themes,
characters and ideas in ways only
live theatre can.
It was certainly a memorable
experience for all involved!
It was a bold and creative
interpretation that balanced tradition
with modern flair. Visually striking
and brilliantly performed. A fantastic
afternoon of theatre.
Miss Egden, Literacy Coordinator
