On Thursday 11th and Friday 12th June, audiences were transported from school straight into the majestic world of ancient India, as we enjoyed two spectacular performances of The Ramayana.

Adapted by Laura Archer from Milly Acharya’s Ramayana for Young Readers, this ancient Sanskrit epic is a traditional Indian tale of love, courage, and bravery. The plot follows young Ram and Sita through exile, separation, and a long, treacherous journey back to each other, ultimately showing that love conquers all.

The production was a collective effort with cast and creatives from Year 7 and 8, with students taking on roles both on stage and behind the scenes, where they managed the backstage responsibilities, including stage management, lighting, sound and creative design.

Ms Archer praised everyone involved in the production: “The cast of dedicated performers has been working exceptionally hard as an ensemble. Through vocal and physical chorus, narrative poems, puppetry and dance, they have collectively woven this complex story together into the performance.

The evidence that children are happier when they experience stories through listening, reading, and engaging in play is undeniable. Yet, as the complexities of technology and modern life continue to encroach on this fundamental right for all children, it has been deeply affirming to witness the cast’s enjoyment and excitement as they create this play.

The receiving and telling of stories are at the heart of our humanity. It is here that we find empathy and compassion, and here we can grow our internal imaginative landscapes, thinking and feeling in places we have never been and through people we have not met, but whom we know instinctively. Stories offer an escapism and freedom to our imaginations that stay with us forever.”

A huge congratulations to the directors, cast, crew and production team!