The Courtyard’s Hereford, Bromyard and Ledbury Senior Youth Theatre groups are combining for the first time to perform one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays.

Each group has been given a specific focus; the Hereford Seniors as the human characters, Ledbury Seniors as the Ariel spirits and Bromyard Seniors as Calian-like creatures.

During rehearsals, the company have collaborated with Wye Circus to train in aerial hoop, silks, and stilt work to encapsulate the magic of the isle. The Youth Theatre groups
have also received a masterclass from vocal coach Nia Lynn who has worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company, to
support them in bringing Shakespeare’s text to life.

The Courtyard Seniors have been working in collaboration
with Hereford College of Arts who have provided the music and soundscapes for the production.

“The Tempest is an exciting text to work with as it is so different to Shakespeare’s previous works. Shakespeare’s final play does not fit into one of his conventional genres of history, comedy or tragedy, but rather a fusion of tragedy and romantic comedy. This ambition to explore new styles is something we have tried to encapsulate in our own production.” Says Director Rebecca Cook, “To collaborate with such talented artists has been a rewarding experience for the Youth Theatre, particularly for those who wish to pursue a career in the arts. Hereford is rich with exceptional artists, and to celebrate these various art forms through this production is a privilege. The Youth Theatre have worked incredibly hard to soak up every opportunity and I am so proud of every single one of them.”

Audiences can visit a Tempest themed art exhibition in The Courtyard foyer before or after the performance. Artwork by students from Hereford College of Arts will be on display in a pop-up exhibition from Monday 18 July – Tuesday 2 August.

The Courtyard Senior Youth Theatre’s production of The
Tempest is kindly supported by The Brailsford Trust.

The Tempest will be in The Courtyard’s Main House on Thursday 28, Friday 29 & Saturday 30 July at 7.30pm as well as Saturday 30 July at 2.30pm. To book tickets, or for more information contact the Box Office on 01432 340555 or visit www.courtyard.org.uk.