At Ficino School, we believe in the value of learning great words by heart — words that shape thought, build confidence, and stay with us for life. Shakespeare’s works are a prime example. His language is expressive, imaginative, and full of insight into human nature. Even centuries later, his plays explore themes we still face today: love, identity, misunderstanding, and transformation.

This week, our Year 7 students performed A Midsummer Night’s Dream, bringing Shakespeare’s world of fairies, mistaken identities, and tangled love stories to life. Through rehearsing and performing, they didn’t just memorise lines — they learned how to speak with clarity, poise, and meaning. These are essential skills in any setting, whether giving a presentation, participating in a discussion, or expressing oneself.

Shakespeare’s influence is still seen in modern storytelling. Films such as West Side Story (based on Romeo and Juliet) and The Lion King (inspired by Hamlet) show how his themes continue to resonate. His phrases — like “break the ice” or “heart of gold” — are still part of everyday language. His work helps students understand how language can shape emotion, persuade others, and express complex ideas.

By engaging with Shakespeare through performance, our students experience first hand how timeless and relevant his words still are — not just in literature, but in life. His plays continue to teach us how to think deeply, speak clearly, and connect meaningfully with others.