Curtains Up: Shakespeare Day at Ferdies

Writer & Media: Jayson Labuschagne

On April 23rd, Ferdies came together to celebrate Shakespeare Day with a series of performances that highlighted the creativity and talent of the students. Rainy weather moved the event indoors, creating a cozy and focused atmosphere in the school hall, where literature took centre stage.

The day began with Atlegile’s thoughtful recitations of Sonnets 115 and 116, setting a reflective tone. Rozalynne and her team performed the iconic death scene involving one of Macduff’s sons. This was followed by Shania and Zakhele’s lively performance from Twelfth Night. Zakhele portrayed a confident and witty Senior Benedick, while Shania brought sharp energy to her role, giving the scene a vibrant, playful edge.

Short scenes from Romeo and Juliet and Hamlet were also performed, each bringing a different side of Shakespeare’s writing to life. The performances were delivered with real effort and heart, creating a powerful sense of connection among the audience.

One of the most memorable moments came from Phenyo, who portrayed Lady Macbeth in the famous "out, damned spot" scene. Her chilling delivery captured the attention of everyone in the room, creating a powerful silence that few performances manage to achieve. Even Miss Roux, known for her deep passion for Shakespeare and literature, could not resist joining in with a playful comment from the audience, showing how much the staff enjoyed the experience alongside the students.

Adding to the atmosphere, teachers dressed as some of Shakespeare’s most iconic characters, including Lady Macbeth, Macbeth, Mercutio, and Julius Caesar. Their enthusiasm added to the sense of fun and community throughout the afternoon.

Shakespeare Day at Ferdies was a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and shared appreciation for timeless works, made even more memorable by the warmth and energy that filled the hall.