Students were plunged into the high-stakes world of the Italian resistance yesterday as they enjoyed a new adaptation of Shakespeare’s Much Ado about Nothing in Wadham College grounds. The comedy was reimagined in the setting of 1943 Messina, as the city, under Allied bombardment, struggles to mount a resistance against the occupying German forces and their own fascist government. Students were utterly immersed in the production, laughing and leaning forward in their seats to get even closer to the action.

It is also inspiring to see how determined and studious they are being with their homework; students are often to be seen discussing a particular essay question or presentation topic together on the lawns, and are doing a very good job of helping each other out by recommending sources for deeper engagement. They are also excited for a change of scenery on their trip to the Cotswolds Wildlife Park later today!