On Wednesday, January 14, Rye Country Day’s English and Theater Departments collaborated to host a school branch of the English-Speaking Union’s (ESU) National Shakespeare Competition.

In the Black Box Theater, 13 Upper School students performed a monologue from a Shakespearean play of their choice for a panel of RCDS judges: Dr. Harding, Ms. Henerey, and Dr. Wayne. Ms. Bell and Ms. Everett served as prompters.

Drama teacher Mx. Viñas was a dynamic Master of Ceremonies, keeping the audience involved between monologues by interspersing student performances with Shakespearean facts and commentary. 

The competition challenged students to build upon their public speaking and performing skills, with judges assessing their understanding of the scene and character, as well as their expression and communication. 

Congratulations to all of our student monologists, including the three winners:

• First Place: Chaim Sciamma ’27
• Second Place: Dana DaCosta ’26
• Third Place: Lillian Pereira ’27

As the RCDS winner, Chaim went to Branch Semi-Finals in New York City. He delivered another winning performance that earned him a spot in the Branch Finals on March 3. Good luck, Chaim!