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To mark the end of Ilkley Grammar School's 400 year celebra-tions, a small group of committed and enthusiastic parents, pupils and staff staged a production of Twelfth Night' - with a modern twist.

Set during the Illyria Rock Festival, it featured a school rock band, two roving reporters and a range of variously and wildly dressed festival visitors.

It was acted throughout with sensitivity and pace and directed with insight and invention by Walter Swan and Yvette Huddlestone.

The romantic leads, Orsino and Viola, with Olivia and then Sebastian, were skilfully portrayed. Ali Burns was an imposing and handsome presence, caught between his unrequited love for Olivia and then his attraction for his young servant, Cesario.

Rose Lambert's charming, lively and convincing interpretation of Viola/Cesario was one of the many successes of the evening.

Her clarity, projection and sincerity on stage lit up her scenes. Olivia was presented as being not just proud and reclusive but as having energy and humour which made her a very attractive character: a difficult role and one Caitlin Ingham achieved with style and control.

The smaller role of the twin brother, Sebastian, was played with intensity and focus by Will Lambert.

Of course Twelfth Night' is also known for its comedy and Shake-speare was on a roll when creating Sir Andrew Aguecheek and Sir Toby Belch, with their sparring partner, Maria (a strong performance from Louise Banks) and their nemesis, Malvolio. Richard Speers (as Sir Andrew) and Matthew Pearson (as Belch) were a memorable double act.

Both have superb voices and heaps of stage presence; they commanded the stage and controlled the plot and comedy with what appeared to be great ease and understanding.

John Wright (or should I write Mr Wright'?) was the only member of staff and rose to the challenge of the central role of Malvolio, after a pupil had to withdraw.

As the Puritan who tries to control and restrict Olivia's household, his adult presence was a useful counterpoint to the other roles and we enjoyed the inventive ending which suggested reconciliation and harmony.

Music was used throughout to highlight the plot and add humour while the cast finale was both catchy and very well sung.

One actor was quoted as saying: "It's a chance to meet new people and to work together to achieve a common goal. It's been great doing Shakespeare. It's had some real high points."

Mrs Gillian James, Headteacher, said: "It was a real privilege to see us take on Shakespeare and with such success. We were delighted Walter and Yvette were prepared to lead the way and the quality of the performances said it all. I hope we can see the community partnership develop further and not have to wait another 400 years!"

8:48am Thursday 3rd January 2008

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