ALL the world's a stage — and this was certainly the case for young Shakespearean actors who trod the boards at Bolton Museum for their production of Twelfth Night.

Sacred Heart RC Primary School's thespians brought the Bard's comedy to the masses to celebrate Shakespeare Week.

They performed acts from the play in the inspiring surroundings of the museum.

Shakespeare Week is a national annual celebration designed to give primary school children a memorable first encounter with the playwright's works.

Hayley Dewhurst, the Westhoughton school's drama and English leader, said: "The children loved performing in the library — they are still talking about it.

"I was so proud of them. Visitors stopped to watch and went up to the pupils afterwards to congratulate them.

"They will never forget the experience."

The pupils had previously performed Twelfth Night at the Shakespeare Festival at the Octagon last November. And this week seven of the cast chose four scenes to act out in two performances. One was with a running commentary to help younger children in the library and museum to understand it.

Miss Dewhurst said: "The young people enjoy Shakespeare and have acted in his plays before.

"The way they pick up the language and make the characters their own is so impressive."

The Shakespeare themed event is one of many which have been staged by Bolton Library and Museum for children to explore, enjoy and develop a love of Shakespeare.

Nathan Silver, in year six, who played Sir Andrew Aguecheek, said: "It was a great experience. We gave people a memory of a Shakespeare play."

Amelia Martin, who played Viola, added: "It was a great experience because it was a good chance to perform to the public and a memory to keep forever."

Cllr John Byrne, cabinet member for culture, youth and sport, said: "The pupils at Sacred Heart RC Primary School were certainly inspired by his work and I believe their take on Twelfth Night was excellent.

"I’d like to thank them for entertaining our visitors with their pop-up performances, and I’m sure we have some budding actors in the making.”