The Alleynian 713 2025

A student’s perspective: Bringing ancient fury to life

from both Dulwich and JAGS – collaborated to build the production from the ground up. We devised scenes, crafted intricate sequences of movement, and shaped the physicality and tone of each moment. The final performance, which took place on the evening of the third day, gave us the opportunity to share the culmination of our efforts with an audience. The rehearsal process was also supported by Year 12 Drama and Theatre students flexing their directing muscle ahead of creating their own work later in the year, and it was great to have input from older students. What I found most rewarding about this ex- perience was the chance to step into the role of a Fury – an unnatural, mythic force of justice and rage. Embracing the non-naturalistic style allowed us to explore our characters in a more abstract and physical way, and I particularly enjoyed the use of physical theatre, which helped

to heighten the emotional intensity and symbolic power of the play. There was something magical about the way we all worked together. Despite the short timeframe, the bond we created felt incredibly strong, and it was through this connection that we were able to produce something thought-provoking. Being part of this devised piece challenged me to stretch my acting abilities and brought out a deeper understanding of performance and collaboration. It reminded me of how theatre, especially when built from scratch, is not just about the final product, but about the journey — one where creativity, courage, and connection are just as important as the lines we speak on stage. ◎

Y ear 9’s scratch production this year offered a powerful and original interpretation of The Furies , inspired by the final act of Robert Icke’s 2015 reinvention of Oresteia . Set against a backdrop of betrayal, justice, and revenge, our devised theatre piece

aimed to reawaken the ancient Greek themes that still pulse with relevance in today’s world of uncertainty and chaos. Over an intense and exhilarating three-day rehear- sal period, our ensemble — made up of students

by Ishaan Mangla, Year 9

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THE ALLEYNIAN 713

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