From Pretoria, South Africa

Adrienne Blignaut, teacher

I had 10 girls - mostly grade 10. (2 grade 11s). They joined because they hate doing Shakespeare and don't understand it. They absolutely LOVED the club [Chill with Will Club]. They enjoyed acting out scenes and were amazed that they could understand it so easily and that the story was not antique, but as interesting as any of our local soap operas. They really got a lot out of it and I think they learned a great deal that they could apply to the plays they are doing in English class (Merchant of Venice, Midsummer night's Dream and Romeo and Juliet). Why this is so amazing for me is that these kids come from a completely different culture and language background. The English culture is very "other" to them despite westernisation. To see their eyes light up when they "get" the lines is awesome. They are also hugely talented and to see how much passion they put into acting their parts is very rewarding.

I think the best part about your plays is that they bring Shakespeare to life for the learners. Also, seeing the enjoyment on their faces when they "catch" the jokes and innuendo.

The school is Loreto Convent School, Skinner Street, Pretoria. We are referred to as Loreto Skinner.