A group of Cawston Elementary students, “Upstart Crows”, recited Shakespeare soliloquies on Monday, May 23, 2016. Students who participated in the soliloquy event were given a certificate of appreciation and a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Mary Davis won first place for her recital of Hamlet, Act II, Scene II as Polonius, and was given the complete works of William Shakespeare.
The “Upstart Crows” is a group of enrichment students who meet twice a week to discuss Shakespeare’s life and works, during the school day. The group was formed based on a classroom discussion three years ago and has grown to a multi-grade group. Students meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the school day for 40 minutes. With the help from teacher Dana Strickler and volunteer Cynthia Reed, students were able to study Shakespeare’s time period, six of his plays, and perform short scenes using masks.
Many students in “Upstart Crows” are in an additional group, The Young Shakespeareans, an after school group. They meet weekly and present several plays each year. Dana Strickler, the founding advisor, said she has seen the students’ self-confidence grow from these groups. Strickler said she has enjoyed giving these students an opportunity to express themselves and inspiring them to reach their full potential.
The Young Shakespeareans is open to Cawston Elementary third, fourth and fifth graders. If your child is interested in joining next year’s group, please ask his or her teacher for more information.
Congratulations to the soliloquy winners! In third place was Sienna Hofstetter, second place Dara Bailey, and first place Mary Davis.