PUPILS were transported from the wintry weather of Redbridge to the summer heat of Athens during a special performance of a classic Shakespeare play at their school.

Youngsters at Bancroft's School, in Woodford Green High Road were treated to a memorable production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by members of the young Shakespeare Society.

School spokeswoman Karen Rogers said the pupils even got to have a go at acting themselves.

She said: "During the performance, the children were invited to act the roles of various characters as well as join in by providing atmospheric sound effects, which they did with enthusiasm, and predicting what happened next.

"The pupils were totally absorbed by the story and were roaring with laughter at the antics of Shakespeare's characters.

"For many of the children it was their very first experience of Shakespeare and when asked whether they had enjoyed the play the resounding, collective 'yes' proved that the morning had been a big success."

Year 5 pupil Jay Ruaux said: "It was an excellent way to help us learn about Shakespeare's plays."

Classmate William Tindall was particularly impressed by the performers. He said: "My favourite character was Bottom. He was really funny. And it was amazing how quickly they could change their costumes."

The Young Shakespeare Company is an educational theatre company which performs to over 100,000 young people every year.