Kings of Baxter (ATOM Study Guide)

Kings of Baxter (2017) is a documentary following juvenile justice detainees as they create a production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The film documents Bell Shakespeare’s landmark education program in Frank Baxter Juvenile Detention Centre on the NSW Central Coast. Through observational footage and interviews, Kings of Baxter explores the young men’s bravado, fear and self-doubt, over three months of rehearsal, leading up to a final performance for friends, family and fellow inmates.

Curriculum Links

Kings of Baxter is suitable viewing for students in Years 9 – 12 in Civics and Citizenship, Drama, English, Health and Physical Education, Legal Studies, Media and VET Community Services.

The documentary can also be used to support the teaching of Pastoral Care programs at Years 9 – 12. It is important that students are provided with strategies to support their learning about themselves and others. Students with well-developed social and emotional skills find it easier to manage themselves, relate to others, develop resilience and a sense of self.