When our English-profile tutor Ms. Schuett suggested a voluntary after-school trip to Shakespeare im Park - as a fun excursion and a possible get-to-know-each-other-better - about ten of us happily agreed. Open-air theatre in the Bürgerpark, bring-your-own snacks and drinks, on a nice summer evening in Bremen? We were in.
We met at the entrance a little earlier to catch up and chat while we waited for everyone to arrive. For many of us, seeing an open-air play like this, was a first. The stage, lighting and food stalls turned the lawn into a real theatre – only that this one was framed by tall, green trees, creeks and the occasional animals sounds. We met several students from the Abendgymnasium with Ms. Meincke and we all grabbed spots under the pavilion and settled in. We had plenty of food and drinks to share amongst ourselves.
The production of Hamlet was performed in its original English version. To be or not to be? Heard that one before? So did we, but hearing it straight from an actor‘s mouth was amazing. The whole play had a modern touch: very few props and some contemporary elements. Imagine our surprise when guards appeared, dressed in camouflage and the main character drew a pistol! Most of us expected 16th century weaponry and costumes. Still, the focus stayed on the acting and language, and after an engaging first half we had a short intermission.
There was a comedic moment when our rustling of snack-bags must have annoyed another guest, who turned around and scolded us for the noise. Most of us were intimidated, but still, the rustling proceeded. Afterall, we were hungry and the organizers had suggested that we’d bring a picknick along! Just as the guest turned around for another snide remark, Herman, our knight in shining armor, shushed them without any hesitation. They repelled, shocked and from then on kept quiet. We could barely hold our laughter. The poor guest. But damn, if it wasn't a fun way to learn a bit more about each other. Definitely an unforgettable moment.
Shortly after, the Bremen weather did its thing: a burst of rain paused the performance and sent everyone seeking refuge under our pavilion, though some brave souls pulled on their raincoats and kept their open-aired seats. Minutes passed before the play continued – extra atmosphere included.
Finally, after the last scene we walked out as a group, chatting about the play and everything else that happened. The one thing we all agreed on was that we should do this more often, since we all enjoyed ourselves — especially the company!
cultural trips like these make learning much more fun – you hear Shakespeare's language live, hang out after school, get to know each other and discover Bremen in a new way. If that sounds like your kind of evening, the English LK/Profile is waiting for you ;)