To be or not to be – that is the question; As part of their Level 2 Internal, on the nights of August 1 and 2, our Yr 12 Drama Class performed their Yr 12 Production - 'Ophelia Thinks Harder' - in the school hall where they were able to showcase their acting talents in front of staff, friends and family.

'Ophelia Thinks Harder' is a reworking of Shakespeare's Hamlet – with serious themes nevertheless. Featuring Ophelia, her maid, Hamlet, Horatio, Laertes, Polonius, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern and extras. The synopsis is that Ophelia is struggling with the constraints placed on her by her social status – as a woman, as a royal, and as a player trapped in a male narrative. However, after a series of encounters with ghosts, actors, wise women and psychologists she is given fresh hope. Will Ophelia realise her own agency and break out of the patriarchal chains of Hamlet’s story, or remain trapped forever? It is a riotous comedy that subverts our expectations of Shakespeare’s heroine.

This wildly feminist play was a joy to watch and our Drama students enjoyed the whole process from blocking to painting props to opening night, it was an experience that they’ll for sure treasure. With COVID usually interfering, it was a real privilege to have been able to put something out there.

A big thank you to the lighting crew Dana and Onnah, parents/caregivers for the support and of course the one and only, Ms Cassells, to whom without her mind, directing, encouragement and yelling of “learn your lines!” This would not have been possible. Congratulations to all involved!

Article By Rizzy Saludez