Young readers get a taste of Shakespeare (UK)

Five schoolgirls performed part of a Shakespeare drama at an Oxford library to encourage young readers to pick up his plays. The Oxford High School pupils, aged 13 and 14, performed an extract from As You Like It in the children's section of the Central Library at Westgate. Alexandra Ackland-Snow, Christabel Cane, Clio Ragna-Takas, Eleanor Plews and Savannah Grieve, left, were joined by tutor Jennifer Rudnay, who performed Shakespeare sonnets at the event on Friday. Ms Rudnay, a graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, said: "The girls have been taught difficult theatrical techniques and are developing confidence through working in a group that will benefit them in whatever profession they decide to pursue." Kate Robinson, Oxfordshire County Council's children's librarian, said: "The girls' performance might be the first taste of Shakespeare for some children. Hopefully they will see how easily accessible his work is to people of all ages."