This week marked the end of Box Clever Theatre Company’s inspiring three-week residency at Walton Academy, which concluded with a powerful performance of Macbeth to an audience of year 10 and year 11 students. Throughout their time with us, the company offered students across multiple year groups an exceptional insight into the creative world of live theatre.
A creative hub across three weeks
From the moment the residency began, Box Clever transformed our Walton Theatre into a dynamic rehearsal space, giving students the opportunity to observe and experience a professional production in development. Rehearsals, workshops and drop-in sessions created a vibrant atmosphere that brought the play to life long before the final performance.
Engagement across year groups
Across the three weeks, students from years 9 to 13 took part in a range of drama and English sessions linked to Macbeth. These included character development work, thematic exploration, relationship studies and sessions examining responsibility, power and the supernatural within the play. Students had opportunities to watch scenes being developed, explore dramatic techniques and take part in discussions that deepened their understanding of the text.
Walton Post 16 drama students were once again the green card group, giving them regular access to rehearsals outside of timetabled lessons. This ongoing involvement allowed them to follow the rehearsal process in greater depth and gain valuable insight into how a professional production develops from page to stage.
Supporting GCSE and A level study
The residency has been particularly valuable for key stage 4 students studying Macbeth as part of their English course. For drama students at key stage 4 and post 16, observing professional actors and directors at work offered broader insight into rehearsal techniques, performance choices and the creative decision-making that shapes a production. Together, these experiences enriched students’ understanding of theatre and the processes behind bringing a play to life.
A memorable final performance
The residency culminated in a full performance of Macbeth following a morning dress rehearsal. Year 10 and year 11 students made up the audience for the final show, experiencing the culmination of three weeks of creative work and gaining a vivid understanding of the play in performance.
Reflecting on an inspiring residency
Hosting Box Clever Theatre Company has once again been an enriching experience for our school community. The residency offered students a rare window into professional theatre-making, sparking creativity, curiosity and confidence across all year groups involved.
We are proud to have welcomed Box Clever Theatre Company back to Walton Academy and look forward to future opportunities for our students to learn from industry professionals.
