In this interview, we had the opportunity to speak with G.Uugantsetseg, an English Language Teacher at the Bookbridge English Training Center, and her students from Arvaikheer soum of Uvurkhangai Province. Together, they share the inspiring journey of how they brought William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” play vividly to life—performed entirely in English—on stage in a rural area of Mongolia.
What inspired you to stage a full “Romeo and Juliet” play in English with your students, especially in a rural setting where such opportunities are rare?
I had the opportunity to participate in a short-term study program in the United States of America through the Fulbright initiative. During my time there, I was deeply inspired by how many schools incorporated drama and performance into their language instruction. It wasn’t just about learning English from a textbook—students were encouraged to live the language through creative expression and active participation. This dynamic approach left a lasting impression on me.
After returning from the program, I shared my experience with Hunter Nuzzi, a dedicated Peace Corps volunteer working in Arvaikheer soum of Uvurkhangai Province. I told him how motivated I was to try something similar with my own students. Without hesitation, he offered his full support to help me stage a play. What we created was far more than a simple language exercise—it became a powerful and practical learning experience that my students and I will never forget.
How have you seen your students grow-both linguistically and personally-through preparing for and performing this play?
During the rehearsal period, I witnessed several meaningful transformations among my students. Hunter prepared a simplified version of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, carefully adapting the language to make it accessible while preserving its emotional depth and poetic essence. This became not just an introduction to English literature, but a profound cultural and educational journey for the young participants.
The experience significantly boosted their confidence, improved their public speaking skills, and fostered a strong sense of teamwork. For many, it was their first time performing on stage, and through this challenge, they discovered their own ability to master something difficult, yet historically prestigious.
Moreover, Romeo and Juliet explores timeless themes such as love, conflict, family, identity, and fate—issues that resonate across cultures and communities, including in rural settings. I think that helped my students see their own lives reflected in the story, making literature personal and relevant.
What strategies or methods have you found most effective in helping students become confident communicators with strong soft skills?
For the students, we began with simple skits based on real-life conversations—an approachable and effective way to ease into performance. Through these activities, they not only practiced English but also learned to collaborate as a team, take on leadership roles, and solve problems creatively. As rehearsals for the play progressed, their public speaking skills noticeably improved, and their self-confidence grew tremendously.
How did the audience react? Was it the same as you expected?
Absolutely yes. Parents, teachers, and community members were genuinely appreciative and enthusiastic. Their support created a celebratory atmosphere, and we all felt a sense of shared joy and achievement. Witnessing how well the play was received—even though it was performed in English—was a powerful and affirming moment. For the students, especially in a rural area where such opportunities are rare, that kind of positive public response was truly life-changing. It instilled a deep and lasting confidence that extended far beyond the stage.
Now, let’s turn the spotlight on the students themselves—those who stood on stage, embodied Shakespearean characters, and brought centuries-old words to life in front of their community. Their voices reflect the courage, growth, and creativity behind the curtain.
How did you feel when you first heard you’d be performing a Romeo and Juliet play in English?
Hi, my name is Tserendorj. I remember the day I heard we’d be performing a play as if it was yesterday. I was filled with excitement, and my hands were shaking when I found out we’d be performing Romeo and Juliet—in English—in front of hundreds of people on stage. One of the biggest challenges I faced was memorizing my lines without relying on the script, and making sure I spoke clearly and loudly enough for the entire audience to hear.
But as we began rehearsing, we grew more confident. We became more comfortable with the story, our characters, and with each other, and we could see ourselves improving day by day.
All of us are part of the Bookbridge English Training Center, which we’ve been attending for three to five years. Without it, none of this would have been possible. At Bookbridge, we don’t just learn English—we develop valuable skills like teamwork, leadership, event planning, and project development. One of those projects was our performance of Romeo and Juliet. We also run several student-led clubs, such as the bag team, social team, Lego club, and debate club. The play was performed by members of the debate club.
Finally, I must mention someone who made it all possible—our teacher and director, Hunter Nuzzi, a dedicated Peace Corps volunteer and the mentor of our debate club. He gave his valuable time, energy, and heart to help us succeed.
Was it difficult to understand Shakespearean English at first? Was it different from the modern English we use?
Yes, it was definitely difficult at first. Shakespearean English felt like a completely different language—it’s old, poetic, and full of unfamiliar vocabulary. At times, it honestly felt like I was reading something in totally different language. But over time, I started to uncover the meanings hidden in the lines, and that helped me feel more comfortable. Instead of feeling lost, I began to appreciate the beauty of the language. I believe that reading and performing Shakespeare’s work has made me more patient and has also improved my English skills.
How long did it take to prepare for the performance?
First of all, I am so delighted to be talking about this amazing journey. I am one of the leaders of the debate club and worked as a host during the preparation of the play “Romeo and Juliet”. The first time we heard that we would perform Romeo and Juliet was before the winter break in December. Before the winter break started, we had already finished reading the script and understood the plot of the play. We practiced from early January to late March. This means, we practiced for exactly three months, twice a week for two to three hours each session. It was a great time full of teamwork, learning and fun.
Did you feel like you needed only talent, or was it only a matter of language?
I would say we needed both. At first, we were told to memorize everything by heart so that we could work on acting and delivery. So in the beginning, the only thing on my mind was “If we memorize everything, there’s no need to worry”. However, it turned out that wasn’t enough. We needed to engage the audience with expressive acting, not just plain lines. So we really tried our best to express the emotion of our roles. Without English, we couldn’t even follow the story. And if we didn’t have the desire to bring the characters to life and make the play interesting, the play would have been boring and forgettable. Also, I discovered how to motivate others and keep the team’s energy high, even when things got tough.
What role did your teachers or community members play in helping you prepare?
Thank you so much for inviting us. It is my first time giving an interview. My name is Bilegt and I am the other leader of the debate club. It was a wonderful experience for me, leading the club and playing in a classical play.
While our teachers supported us with guidance and feedback, we took charge of most of the preparation ourselves. We even built the entire stage setup, which made the experience more meaningful. Our teachers trusted us and gave us the freedom to be creative, and that really helped us grow as a team.
What was your favorite scene or moment in the play, either as a performer or a viewer?
My favorite moment was performing during the fight scene between Tybalt and Romeo. It was full of emotions and felt like a scene straight out of a movie. The swords and even costumes were made by us, which made it feel more special. Seeing the audience react to something we created from scratch was unforgettable. Leading the club helped me learn how to communicate clearly and confidently with my team to keep everyone on the same page.
What message would you like to share with other rural students who think performing a full play in English might be too difficult?
I played the role of Juliet in the play. Even though I was the youngest among the other students and scared a bit, I am so happy that we performed the play successfully and had an incredible experience. About the question, I would tell other rural students that yes, it feels scary at first speaking a whole play in English, and it indeed sounds impossible but once you step into the story and feel the emotions, it becomes natural.
It’s not about perfect English. It’s about feeling the words. Every great thing starts small. I stumbled over my words at times. Yes, it was difficult but if you try hard enough and do your best, you will make it. Having fun is important too. When you stand upon the stage, it doesn’t matter where you come from, nor how perfect your language may sound, what matters is the fire you hold within.
If William Shakespeare were alive today and saw your performance, what do you think he would say?
Truly, I cannot say for certain what William Shakespeare would think, for he lived in a time so different from ours. But in my heart, I believe he would be proud. Proud that students from far away, speaking a language not their own, would still bring his story to life with such passion. Proud that his words could travel across centuries and still be felt so deeply. Even if we stumbled or changed things a little, I think he would see the love and effort we poured into it and smile, knowing that his play still touched hearts.
By D.CHANTSALMAA
