A West End debut for schoolboy aged 11

A Sandal schoolboy has made his West End debut in London at the age of just 11.
Arthur Darvill and Owen Registe from Sandal Castle VA CommunityPrimary School at Shakespeare Schools Festival Bain GalaArthur Darvill and Owen Registe from Sandal Castle VA CommunityPrimary School at Shakespeare Schools Festival Bain Gala
Arthur Darvill and Owen Registe from Sandal Castle VA CommunityPrimary School at Shakespeare Schools Festival Bain Gala

Owen Registe appeared on stage in front of a sold out crowd in Shakespeare School’s Festival Gala at London’s Piccadilly Theatre on Monday.

The Sandal Castle Primary School pupil starred alongside former Doctor Who companion Arthur Darvill in a specially adapted duologue passing the crown from Shakespeare’s Richard II to Henry V.

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He said: “I was more excited than nervous. We got to see how famous actors like Arthur really do it. My mum, dad, brother and grandparents saw me as Henry V and I got to travel to London for the first time, it was really inspiring.”

Arthur said: “There is something special about being on stage with someone that age. Their commitment and willingness to try stuff out is amazing, they play with it more than professionals sometimes dare to.

“Passing the crown from Shakespeare’s Richard II to Henry V is about the inheritance we pass on to the next generation. Its not just about words and performance, its great to see them having so much fun, working with each other and supporting each other. I was so impressed with Owen, he was confident and fun and utterly convincing in his role. He’s a little pro already.”

Owen was one of more than 50 children who performed in the theatre to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death.

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He travelled with his teacher Matt Fox, who said: “It’s easy to think that Shakespeare is too much of a challenge for primary aged children – or something that doesn’t get them excited.

Arthur Darvill and Owen Registe from Sandal Castle VA CommunityPrimary School at Shakespeare Schools Festival Bain GalaArthur Darvill and Owen Registe from Sandal Castle VA CommunityPrimary School at Shakespeare Schools Festival Bain Gala
Arthur Darvill and Owen Registe from Sandal Castle VA CommunityPrimary School at Shakespeare Schools Festival Bain Gala

“Seeing Owen realise his talent as Henry V in the West End tonight was a highlight in my teaching career. It makes me incredibly proud.”

Children across Yorkshire still have the chance to take part in a show like Owen. Schools can sign up atwww.ssf.uk.com before the end of May.