Shakespeare would be amazed if he could see the preparations going on at Basildon's Chalvedon School.

Staff and pupils are getting ready to stage a production of Romeo and Juliet - but with a difference.

Although the words will be true to the original text, the actors will deliver their lines on a set adorned with graffiti art.

Pupil Ricky Judd, 11, who is the world kick boxing champion in his age group, has also been roped in to take part in the fighting scenes.

This week, the school in Wickford Avenue, Pitsea, is holding an arts festival in preparation for the July production.

Festival organiser and teacher of English and drama, Dominique Neville, explained: "We have had a different artist running workshops every day this week dealing with dance, music or drama. They have all used the theme of Romeo and Juliet."

On Monday, Snap Theatre Company put in an appearance at the school. On Tuesday, it was the turn of Cheshire percussionist Andrew Whettam. He brought along his Congo drums and xylophones, with some instruments coming from as far afield as Cuba.

On Wednesday, local dance group Charizma revealed the secrets behind their nifty moves.

Yesterday Chalvedon art teacher Russell Hartley asked pupils to bring in shoe boxes to create their own stage sets and today there was due to be a workshop on the school production held by Ms Neville.

The performances will be held on July 15 and 16. If you would like to book a ticket call the school on 01268 552536.

On the beat - pupils get some useful tips on how to make their play go with a bang from Andy Whettam

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

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