PUPILS have been learning about Shakespeare and theatre during a visit by a top drama company.

Oxford High School will host a preview performance of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet by renowned theatre director Iqbal Khan on Friday, the culmination of a two-week residency.

A post-show discussion with Mr Khan and the cast from Box Clever Theatre Company will follow.

Michael Wicherek, artistic director for Box Clever said: “Oxford High School is proving to be a tremendously creative environment to work in, for the actors and the whole team.

“The sharing of the creative process between the students and the theatre company will undoubtedly lead to a far more interesting product at the end.”

Judith Carlisle, headteacher at the school in Belbroughton Road, said: “This is no ordinary residency. By collaborating with Mr Khan and the actors in the early stages of rehearsal, the girls are involved in, and inspired by, professional creative processes.

“It will be great for us all to see the result of their influence when we see this fresh interpretation of Romeo and Juliet in performance.”

After the residency, the professional actors will transfer to the Unicorn Theatre in London where the show will run from Monday until Thursday, May 9.