“Who we are is shaped by what we do and experience, our memories define who we are and what we take away from life. Our most important memories are the ones without consequences, the rare times we don’t have to worry and can just be. Once a year, Bard on the Beach provides this kind of an experience.
At the beginning of each school year our school takes us to see a play put on by Bard on the Beach. Initially put off by being forced to sit through Shakespeare’s ramblings, it has become one of my favorite times of the year. I look forward to it at the beginning of the year and look back on all the times we went with fondness.
Whether it is the easily understandable way the plays are presented or the rare chance to be with our classmates in a stress free environment, something about the experience gives off a feeling of comfort. Us students are gifted the opportunity to observe the theatre – something we would otherwise likely not. We tend to actively avoid Shakespeare so to get the chance to see it performed in an easily consumable and understandable way gives us a new appreciation for the art form.
Additionally to widening our horizons, Bard allows us to let loose and fool around with friends, classmates, and even teachers. Most importantly we get to see a rare side of each other. We see the people we see daily in a new state of mind.
Being able to just breathe and have fun is a more valuable memory and lesson than anything else. It is these moments in time that we cherish, that we look to in times of struggle. It’s these moments that we need more than anything in life. The moments that remind us who we are and who we love. The moments that remind us how beautiful it is to be alive.
Bard on the Beach should be attended by every school because of what it can give to the students; not the education of a classic play, but a momentary reprise from the suffocation of school. An incredibly simple moment of extraordinary significance. These are the memories students need. In the midst of frantic struggle of a school year, a single moment, giggling with a friend, where you truly feel alive.”
– Kira Klein, Grade 12 student
