On Thursday 30 January, Walton Post 16 students and staff were invited to attend the latest Box Clever Theatre Company production of Romeo and Juliet at Blackfriars Arts Centre in Boston.
A special meet and greet
The evening began with an exclusive meet and greet, where students had the opportunity to connect with actors from other Box Clever productions, key members of the theatre company, and representatives from Blackfriars Arts Centre. They were also reunited with the cast of Romeo & Juliet, who were both excited and surprised to see familiar faces from their two-week residency at Walton Academy in October.
Following an inspiring series of speeches—where Walton Academy received a special mention for our continued support—the audience gathered for a unique performance by Box Clever patron Corinna Brown (Heartstopper, Netflix). Her powerful and witty monologue about young love captivated the room, and students had the opportunity to meet her afterwards, gaining valuable advice for their own acting aspirations.
A spellbinding performance
The performance of Romeo & Juliet was a mesmerising reimagining of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy. Kyan Andrews (A Christmas Carol, Marley’s Ghost) brought charm and charisma to the role of Romeo, while Olivia Pommier (A Christmas Carol, Bob Cratchit) delivered an outstanding portrayal of Juliet. Samater Ahmed (A Christmas Carol, Scrooge) was exceptional as the narrator, seamlessly guiding the audience through moments of humour, tension, and heartbreak.
The trio’s on-stage chemistry was electric, with high-energy fight scenes, deeply moving love scenes, and a gripping finale that left the audience spellbound. Adapted by Michael Wicherek and Oneness Sankara, the production was directed and choreographed by Riad Richie, whose creative fusion of classical, modern, and sci-fi elements brought fresh energy to the story. Costumes, a striking blend of period and contemporary styles, were masterfully designed by Layla Zheng, while Pip Thurlow’s expert lighting and sound design heightened the drama at every turn.
Continuing our partnership with Box Clever
Walton Academy is proud to continue working with Box Clever, providing students with opportunities to engage with professional theatre and witness outstanding performances firsthand.
Student reflections
“The Romeo and Juliet performance by Box Clever was my favourite production I have ever watched. The choreography, lighting, sound, and costume were amazing. The actors’ energy and talent made the experience unforgettable.” – Kacper, year 12
“Wow. Box Clever never fails to impress! I loved every second of the performance, there wasn’t a moment I wasn’t smiling. Liv, Samater, and Kyan, you were phenomenal as always! I feel so lucky to have been there.” – Abigail, year 12
“It was genuinely amazing. The whole production – from the physicality to the music, lights, and, of course, the acting – was perfect.” – Charlie, year 12