AN audience was treated to four versions of the same lead character as students tackled the complexities of a classic play.
Northallerton School and Sixth Form College students performed Bertolt Brecht’s Caucasian Chalk Circle to friends and family.
Written by Brecht, a renowned German poet, playwright and theatre director, the play saw four students play the lead character of Grusha, a maid who finds and raises an abandoned child, as she changes character throughout the five act play.
More than 20 students from Years 7-13 have been rehearsing since September to perfect their acting, costume and set changes.
Head of drama Neil Stimson said: “They all did really well particularly as there a lot of chorus and ensemble sequences and it hasn’t been the easiest of scripts. They have been challenged and had to work together really tightly.”
Students also had to work with puppets, made by former head of art Jean Lake, as the story of the baby orphan unfolded.
Mr Stimson said: “The play was designed to make the audience think about what they were seeing and the issues and messages of the story.”
Emily Hobbs, 18, of Romanby, who played one of the Grushas and is aiming to be a professional actress, said: “It has been a long process but I have really enjoyed it and it was great working with the younger students. It was great fun and we became like a big family.”
Chloe Grocott, 17, of Northallerton, who played the maverick judge Azdak and wants to work in film production, added: “I have found it really interesting and it has been great to do something different. We are all looking forward to seeing how it comes out.”